“This is not just about funding, this also pertains to this nation’s (goals). We want to ensure that children are born from families who are ready, healthy, and happy,” the minister said here on Thursday.
During a meeting with the Representative of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) for Indonesia, Hassan Mohtashami, he also drew attention to the need for sustainable funding to protect women’s rights, reduce the maternal mortality rate, and encourage sustainable economic growth.
His administration and the UNFPA agreed that access to contraceptives is vital. It is also a human right and a form of strategic investment for national development.
Hence, his administration has committed to pursuing funding to develop quality families.
On the same occasion, Mohtashami expressed his concern about the reduction in the budget for the contraceptive program in Indonesia.
In other countries, similar moves have led to a spike in unsafe abortion practices and maternal mortality.
“We have seen it in Pakistan, Turkey, and Uganda,” he pointed out.
Slashing the budget for contraceptives can turn out to be a risky and costly mistake for a nation -- both economically and socially.
Mohtashami outlined three reasons why funding for contraceptives needs to be maintained. First, to ensure women’s rights because contraceptives allow women to make an informed decision about their bodies, lives, and the number of kids they wish to have.
Second, contraceptives can potentially save lives, and their use is in line with national family planning goals.
“Because we know, for example, in Indonesia’s case, the maternal mortality rate is high. Access to contraceptives is proven to reduce the maternal mortality rate significantly,” he said.
Third, the funding is a form of economic investment. Every dollar invested in contraceptives can save future healthcare, education, and development costs.
The UNFPA also promised to help the ministry in advocating the strategic value of contraceptives to the Finance Ministry and the House of Representatives.
“We are ready to support the Indonesian government through data, analysis, and a strong argument. Decision about budget today will determine what we leave for future generations,” he stressed.
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Translator: Lintang Budiyanti P, Mecca Yumna
Editor: Primayanti
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