Family Planning: New Faith-Based Initiatives for Women's Health

PURPOSE: Document how faith-based organizations (FBOs) can increase impact on women's and children's health through family planning. Evidence comes from surveys and FBO exchanges on advocacy, policy and programs. DATA AND METHODS: Christian Connections for International Health (CCIH)surveyed 67 of its member organizations through e-mail, web sites, and interviews, documenting attitudes and practices. CCIH also assessed its public education efforts with Congress and international health organizations to support family planning. RESULTS: CCIH members work in 151 countries, have combined annual revenues over $3.4 billion, and have sustained presence. FBOs provide 30-70% of health services in many African countries. None of the 67 respondents opposed family planning when understood as enabling individuals to voluntarily achieve their desired number and spacing of pregnancies. Over half provided family planning services. African members report major unmet family planning needs. National FBO networks want to meet these needs--requesting family planning supplies, training, educational materials and staff support. Between 70-85% want to integrate family planning into HIV/AIDS, child health and maternity care. Congressional briefings by CCIH on Christian support for family planning created positive dialogues. RECOMMENDATIONS: •Recognize FBOs' desire to strengthen family planning •Partner with national FBO networks in Africa for expanding facility and community-based services •Respect needs of various FBOs to be consistent with their particular religious teachings and values •Clarify for FBOs and their public supporters contraceptive mechanisms of action and evidence that family planning reduces the need for abortion •Educate Congress and donors on Christian organizations' support for international family planning