By Phil Anglewicz
On March 12–13, the William H. Gates Sr. Institute for Population and Reproductive Health and FP2030 co-hosted a pivotal convening in Washington, D.C., to explore the Future of Family Planning.
Originally conceived as a platform to discuss long-term themes like demographic futures, climate change, and innovations in measurement, the convening rapidly evolved in response to urgent developments: significant shifts in U.S. government foreign assistance policy, including the potential dismantling of USAID. In the face of these seismic changes, we pivoted to address the moment.
Nearly 200 global leaders across sectors—including FP/RH/SRHR programs, advocacy, data, research, and financing—joined us from around the world. Together, we sought to:
- Understand the implications of U.S. policy changes on global FP/RH/SRHR funding, programs, and research,
- Develop coordinated responses,
- Strengthen advocacy efforts across the field, and
- Chart next steps leading to ICFP 2025 in Bogotá, Colombia, with a firm grounding in equity.
A powerful keynote from UNFPA Executive Director Dr. Natalia Kanem and the launch of FP2030’s Made Possible by Family Planning campaign added energy and inspiration to our conversations.
What We Heard—and Where We’re Going
The convening exceeded expectations. Amidst uncertainty, it offered not just clarity but also hope. Participants spoke with urgency and conviction, demonstrating a collective commitment to safeguarding the future of family planning. Notably, actionable plans emerged that will carry forward into the lead-up to ICFP in Bogotá and beyond.
What struck me most was the momentum building behind a more structured and strategic movement for family planning and foreign assistance. There’s a renewed hunger to organize, advocate, and amplify the field’s importance—together.
Transparency and Next Steps
Given the sensitive nature of these policy discussions, we limited the convening to in-person participation. However, we are committed to transparency and collective progress. To keep the conversation going and ensure a broader reach, we’ve launched a highlight website where you can explore key takeaways and engage with the convening’s outcomes.
Join Us in Moving Forward
As we look ahead, your voice and actions matter more than ever. Here’s how you can be part of this growing movement:
- Explore the convening highlights online and share them widely.
- Reflect on what you can do to advance the field.
- Craft your own Made Possible by Family Planning story.
- Join an ICFP subcommittee to help shape ongoing conversations.
- Reach out to us—we welcome your insights and ideas.
- And most importantly, join us this November in Bogotá at ICFP 2025.
In difficult times, our community rises. Let’s keep rising—together.
