The Trump administration’s expansion of the so-called Mexico City policy restricting reproductive care around the world, to now cover gender ideology and diversity efforts, will impact billions of dollars in foreign aid not previously covered, according to health experts.
The State Department on Jan. 23 announced that the policy, reinstated when President Donald Trump took office, would be expanded beyond abortion restrictions and would apply to a wider scope of organizations than during previous administrations.
Known as the Mexico City policy for the location where President Ronald Reagan announced it in 1984, and referred to by critics as the global gag rule, the policy required foreign nongovernmental organizations to certify that they wouldn’t perform or refer for abortions before accepting U.S. dollars. The newly expanded rule requires foreign partners to agree not to promote “gender ideology” or diversity, equity and inclusion activities as well.
