# Reproductive Rights are Human Rights Act of 2021

This bill directs the U.S. government to make reproductive rights a priority in its international relations and foreign policy. Essentially, it tells the State Department and other federal agencies that when the U.S. deals with other countries—whether through diplomacy, aid programs, or trade agreements—they should actively promote access to reproductive healthcare, family planning services, and abortion rights around the world.

The bill specifically instructs the government to support international organizations and programs that provide contraception, sex education, and abortion services in developing countries. It also aims to reverse or modify certain U.S. policies that have restricted funding for international organizations that provide or promote abortion. For example, it addresses policies that have historically prevented American foreign aid from going to groups that offer abortion services, even if that aid was meant for other healthcare purposes like treating infections or providing prenatal care.

For most Americans, this bill's effects are indirect. It doesn't change any laws within the United States or affect healthcare access domestically. Instead, it reshapes how American tax dollars are spent on international health programs and what values the U.S. emphasizes when working with other nations. Supporters argue it helps women in poorer countries access the full range of reproductive healthcare options, while opponents contend it uses foreign aid to promote abortion globally, which conflicts with their values. The bill essentially represents a choice about what America prioritizes when engaging internationally on health and human rights issues.

Reproductive Rights are Human Rights Act of 2021

Menendez, Robert

Reproductive Rights are Human Rights Act of 2021 This bill directs the Department of State to include in its annual reports on human rights in countries receiving U.S. development and security assistance a discussion of the status of reproductive rights in each country. This must include whether a country has adopted and enforced policies to (1) promote access to contraception and accurate, nondiscriminatory family planning and sexual health information; (2) provide services to ensure safe and healthy pregnancy and childbirth; (3) expand or restrict access to safe abortion services; and (4) prevent and treat sexually transmitted diseases. For each country, the reports shall also contain (1) data concerning pregnancy-related injuries and deaths; and (2) a description of the nature and extent of discrimination and violence against women, girls, and LGBTQI+ individuals in health care settings and the relevant government's response to such actions.