Catholic group accuses Western aid of pushing abortion in Africa under women's rights cover

Human Life International, a Catholic pro-life group, has raised concerns about Western efforts to combat gender-based violence in Africa. The organisation claims a hidden agenda is pushing abortion under the guise of women’s empowerment across the continent. The French government recently pledged $7.5 million to women’s civil society groups in 10 African countries. The funding aims to improve responses to gender-based violence.

Human Life International warns that part of this initiative involves collaboration with groups like MSI Reproductive Choices and the African affiliate of Planned Parenthood. These organisations have faced criticism for promoting abortion and contraception in Kenya, Niger, and Zambia. The group also highlights the Feminist Opportunities Now programme, funded by the French Development Agency, as part of this agenda.

The Guttmacher Institute reports over 8 million abortions occur in Africa annually, with more than 4 million involving female foetuses. Human Life International argues that expanding abortion access does not aid women and instead constitutes a form of gender-based violence. The organisation advocates for chastity programmes and supports pregnancy resource centres, offering medical, material, and spiritual aid to pregnant women and their children.

To counter these trends, Human Life International works with local leaders, women, men, and young people. Their efforts focus on raising awareness and strengthening families against gender-based violence and abortion. The debate centres on how best to address gender-based violence in Africa. Human Life International promotes alternative solutions, while Western-funded programmes continue to expand. The organisation’s warnings highlight ongoing tensions over reproductive rights and women’s empowerment on the continent.