Trump Expands Foreign Aid Ban To Abortion, DEI And Gender Identity Programs
2 days ago
The Trump administration is expanding its restrictions on U.S. foreign aid to bar funding not only for groups that support abortion services but also for organizations that promote gender identity initiatives and diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) programs. The changes significantly broaden the scope of the longstanding Mexico City Policy, a rule first established under President Ronald Reagan that conditions U.S. foreign assistance on recipients agreeing not to provide or advocate for abortion‑related care.
Under the new rules, set to be finalized Friday in the Federal Register, organizations receiving U.S. aid — including international and U.S.‑based non‑governmental groups — would have to certify that they do not provide or promote abortion as a method of family planning, engage in what the administration describes as “gender ideology,” or participate in diversity, equity and inclusion‑related activities. The expanded policy is expected to affect more than $30 billion in foreign assistance.
Administration officials say the policy ensures U.S. taxpayer dollars do not support programs that conflict with broader policy goals. Anti‑abortion advocates have praised the move as a major victory.
However, abortion rights and LGBTQ+ advocates warn that the expanded ban could force humanitarian and health groups to choose between U.S. funding and providing essential services around the world. Critics also argue that the policy could jeopardize critical healthcare, research and support programs.
The expansion coincides with the anniversary of the now‑overturned Roe v. Wade decision and the annual March for Life demonstration in Washington, D.C.
Under the new rules, set to be finalized Friday in the Federal Register, organizations receiving U.S. aid — including international and U.S.‑based non‑governmental groups — would have to certify that they do not provide or promote abortion as a method of family planning, engage in what the administration describes as “gender ideology,” or participate in diversity, equity and inclusion‑related activities. The expanded policy is expected to affect more than $30 billion in foreign assistance.
Administration officials say the policy ensures U.S. taxpayer dollars do not support programs that conflict with broader policy goals. Anti‑abortion advocates have praised the move as a major victory.
However, abortion rights and LGBTQ+ advocates warn that the expanded ban could force humanitarian and health groups to choose between U.S. funding and providing essential services around the world. Critics also argue that the policy could jeopardize critical healthcare, research and support programs.
The expansion coincides with the anniversary of the now‑overturned Roe v. Wade decision and the annual March for Life demonstration in Washington, D.C.
