Unite in abortion solidarity: a message from FIGO President

The theme for the International Safe Abortion Day is “Unite in abortion solidarity” – a clear indication for our pulling together to move further and faster. Acceleration of progress towards reduction of preventable morbidity/ mortality from unsafe abortion which still ravages many of our nations, must occur. Furthermore, we need to value investment in women’s human capital, reproductive justice, and quality of life. 

Unsafe abortion often results from unplanned, mistimed or unwanted pregnancy. The lack of access to contraceptive information and services; contraception failure following uptake followed by discontinuation, inappropriate switching, erratic use, and unmet needs. Additional barriers include: weak normative environments, weak leadership and clinical governance, lack of fiscal space, social determinants, harmful community values, beliefs and social vices such as violence against women. Health workers incapacity or constrained working environment, lack of embracing of technologies, and disempowered individuals culminating in poor decision making, health-seeking behaviour and adverse health outcomes and including deaths. This is particularly notable for vulnerable, marginalised populations and during humanitarian crisis where the need is greatest.

Safe abortion is a time-sensitive essential health care and saves more lives! The World Health Organization has provided abortion care guidelines that address clinical services, service delivery and the need for prioritised research. Furthermore, FIGO has released guidance, checklists, position declarations and statements, addressed the ecosystem for provision of basic, comprehensive and emergency care services; and continues to engage at all health levels and beyond towards safe abortion advocacy. 

The theme for International Safe Abortion Day as professionals more is needed in our leadership and clinical governance, provision of a resilient health system, galvanised collaboration of professional bodies that is multidisciplinary and multi-sector to address systemic barriers, undertaking of cross-learning, conduct of evidence synthesis, and advocacy with accountability. These concerted acts must be undertaken globally, regionally and locally to transform the SRHR pathway for all girls and women universally to stamp out unsafe abortion.