"US to Incinerate $9.7M in Unused Birth Control"

The U.S. Government's Plan to Destroy $9.7 Million in Birth Control Remains Uncertain In a move that has sparked controversy, the U.S. State Department announced plans to destroy nearly $10 million worth of birth control pills and other contraceptives meant for women in low-income countries. The decision, made in July, would have seen the taxpayer-funded contraceptives incinerated at a cost of $167,000. According to the State Department, the stocks were initially intended for distribution through the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), but were left stranded in a Belgian warehouse due to the Trump administration's freeze on foreign aid. The contraceptives have been stored in the warehouse since 2022, valued at nearly $10 million. The decision to destroy the contraceptives has raised concerns among reproductive health advocates and experts, who argue that it would exacerbate existing shortages of essential family planning services in developing countries. "This is a huge waste of resources," said Dr. Kathryn Andersen, a reproductive health expert at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). "These contraceptives are not just any ordinary products; they're critical for women's health and well-being." The U.S. State Department has stated that the contraceptives would be sent to France to be destroyed, but it remains unclear whether this plan will proceed. The decision to destroy the contraceptives has been met with opposition from some lawmakers, who argue that it is a misuse of taxpayer funds. In July, the State Department announced its intention to spend $167,000 to incinerate the contraceptives at the end of the month. However, it appears that this plan may have been put on hold. According to a spokesperson for the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), "The agency is currently reviewing its options and will make a decision in due course." The controversy surrounding the destruction of the contraceptives highlights the ongoing challenges facing global reproductive health efforts. Despite the importance of family planning services, many low-income countries continue to struggle with shortages of essential supplies. As the fate of the contraceptives remains uncertain, reproductive health advocates are urging the U.S. government to reconsider its decision and explore alternative solutions that would ensure the safe distribution of these critical resources. Sources: NPR Politics: "The U.S. said it would burn $9.7 million of birth control. Its fate is still unclear" Reuters: Marta Fiorin, photographer This story was compiled from reports by NPR Politics and NPR News.