GOP's Anti-Abortion Stance Jeopardizes Lifesaving Global HIV Program

The U.S. President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), a program that has saved 25 million lives globally, is facing instability due to opposition from a small number of Republican lawmakers who are threatening its funding over the issue of abortion. PEPFAR, created by President George W. Bush, provides HIV/AIDS medication, strengthens healthcare systems, cares for AIDS orphans, and offers job training. The program's bipartisan support is cracking as some Republicans accuse the Biden administration of using PEPFAR to promote abortion. Supporters argue that existing U.S. law already prohibits funding for abortion services, and any instability in funding could have dangerous implications for global health.