Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton today reported that there are 53 million unintended pregnancies in the developing world each year, and 215 million women facing unmet needs for family planning.
“This is the year we must commit ourselves to accelerating our efforts to ensure that all women have access to family planning and reproductive health care and services.” -Ms. Clinton
She said family planning is the basic right of all individuals and couples to have the information and means to decide freely and responsibly the number, spacing, and timing of their children.
“I am proud to be a member of the global community of partners working to promote reproductive health and rights, united in our belief that voluntary family planning provides a solid foundation for all women to achieve their God-given potential.” -Ms. Clinton
She stressed that she believes that empowering women is the key to unlocking many of the challenges we face around the world.
“Our bottom line is and must remain the empowerment of women and young people to control their own sexual and reproductive choices.” -Ms. Clinton
She noted by improving access to reproductive health services, including family planning, the world creates a ripple effect that helps women care for their families, support their communities, and lead their countries to be healthier, and more productive.
She stressed that the United States, through the Global Heath Initiative and the good work of USAID, is committed to avert maternal death and disability.
She pledges to continue to do all in her power to contribute to ending the needless death and suffering of women from complications of pregnancy and childbirth.
“Your continued support and commitment is essential to fighting for the lives of women and ensuring today’s young girls and boys live in a tomorrow that holds out great promise.” -Ms. Clinton
