IPPF

The International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) was founded over fifty years ago by brave and angry activists. Today volunteer leadership continues to give our movement its enduring strength and unique spirit. From community-based carers and educators to health experts and campaigners, volunteers keep our organization alive and relevant to those we serve.

Now IPPF is global movement of organizations committed to relieving the burden of sexual and reproductive ill health, by providing high quality information and services, and advocating for much needed change. Our network is active in 180 countries, working with communities and individuals. Beyond their medical impact, our programmes also have far-reaching social, economic and psychological benefits for women, men, young people, families and nations.

Good sexual and reproductive health, and the freedom for people to plan the timing and size of their families, are basic human rights. They are also recognized as being key elements in the reduction of global poverty. Access to good sexual and reproductive health services, including family planning, is one of the single most effective ways to improve individual and collective health and well-being.

In 2008, IPPF served over 30 million people. Eighty five per cent of our clients in low human development index countries are poor, marginalized or socially excluded due to their gender, age, marital status, lifestyle and location. For this reason we strive to give a voice to the disenfranchised, through our advocacy efforts to increase public, political and financial support for sexual and reproductive health at national and international level.

Our longstanding relationship with Rutgers Nisso Groep is an outstanding example of cooperation and shared learning. Since 2005, Rutgers Nisso Groep’s ‘Youth Incentives Fund,’ with technical support from IPPF, has worked to foster the Dutch approach to Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights and young people with partners in Tanzania, Bangladesh, Malawi, Mali and Rwanda.

“I have a vision of a day when every child that is born is welcome, when men and women are equal, and sexuality is an expression of intimacy, pleasure and tenderness.”

Elise Ottesen-Jensen, IPPF founder 1933