As we wrap up the year, we’re zooming in on inspiring moments and wins. 2025 was undoubtedly difficult, with escalating anti-choice activity and governments slashing funding for global health programmes, but the courage and resilience of passionate people have continued to shine through. We’ve gained ground in ways that will change people’s lives for the better.
With a shared vision in mind – to create a world where everyone can control their own reproductive healthcare and futures – MSI teams and partners showed true grit, protecting and progressing our rights across the globe.
Here’s some positive news from 2025 in the world of abortion and reproductive rights:
MALAWI: Young survivors of sexual violence now have a right to abortion
In Malawi, survivors of sexual violence under the age of 18 now have the right to an abortion. This decision came from a High Court ruling, after a years-long effort by MSI Malawi and many local partners.
Not only will it support the health and dignity of young people during a time of need, but it’s a major step forward for abortion rights in the country and advocates hope it will pave the way for future progress.
UNITED STATES & MEXICO: MSI Mexico trained 52 American doctors to provide abortion
This year, 52 American doctors travelled to Mexico to receive training from MSI on high-quality abortion care.
With state bans and increasing restrictions on abortion access, there are fewer opportunities for healthcare providers in the US to receive abortion training. So medical professionals are going the extra mile to seek it. Our training programme in Mexico is increasing the number of skilled healthcare workers poised and proud to provide abortion.
ENGLAND & WALES: People no longer criminalised for having an abortion
In June, UK MPs voted to end the prosecution of women who end their own pregnancies.
MSI fought hard alongside others for this reform of the abortion law in England and Wales. Once signed into law, no one will face invasive criminal investigations or face prison for ending their own pregnancy.
ETHIOPIA: New government plan for young people’s reproductive rights
20 years ago, Ethiopia expanded safe and legal abortion care, giving women greater opportunities and control over their lives. This year, the country has gone further to secure reproductive rights for young people.
The government’s new plan – which MSI Ethiopia helped to shape – boosts young people’s sexual health education in schools, and their access to contraception.
BANGLADESH: Launch of family planning strategy to reach remote communities
A new government strategy in Bangladesh will focus resources on reaching people in remote and marginalised communities with the reproductive choices they need.
MSI Bangladesh consistently advocated for this strategy for over five years. In practice, it means communities that have been overlooked by the health system will now be able to access contraception – and the life-changing benefits that come with it.
KENYA: Renewed effort to reduce maternal deaths with updated abortion guidance
Thanks to MSI Kenya and local advocacy partners’ efforts, Kenya’s abortion guidelines have been revised to be in line with World Health Organization standards.
For the first time, the guidelines include a training schedule to ensure providers are receiving quality training regularly, and local governments will factor in post-abortion care services when allocating resources – building a stronger health system in Kenya.
GLOBALLY: Many have stepped forward to protect choice
When the US slashed international aid funding at the start of the year, many others stepped forward to protect people’s access to reproductive healthcare.
MSI has worked closely with governments and donors to find creative ways to continue delivering essential services and support health systems.
Nigeria, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Madagascar, Papua New Guinea, and DRC’s governments have increased their expenditure to support reproductive healthcare – in some cases thanks to direct advocacy from MSI and local partners.
Meanwhile, MSI’s incredible donors have contributed $5.6 million in response to the Choice Emergency Fund to maintain services for people who need them most.
Together, we’re doing all we can to protect choice.
We hope you’re as inspired by this progress as we are. Countless people, organisations, leaders and governments are recognising the urgent need to expand access to abortion and contraception, not simply as healthcare but also as drivers of gender equality, the development of nations, economic prosperity and progress.
One small method of contraception can change the course of an entire future. One safe abortion service can save a woman’s life. And the impact of these small interventions will be seen for generations to come.
As tough as 2025 has been for women’s health globally, and as we brace ourselves for consequences yet to be seen, we can feel safe in the knowledge that passionate people are achieving remarkable wins to push forward our reproductive rights.
Better yet – we can join them, or directly support their work.
