U.S. Plans to Destroy $9.7 Million in Contraceptives Stored in Belgium Stir Concern in Europe

Plans by the U.S. administration to incinerate nearly $10 million worth of contraceptives stored in a warehouse in Belgium have raised serious concerns among European governments, who are actively seeking ways to halt the destruction.

Earlier this year, the abrupt defunding and dismantling of the United States Agency for International Development (U.S.A.I.D.) left millions of contraceptive supplies—including birth control pills, intrauterine devices, and hormonal implants—stranded in Geel, Belgium. These supplies were originally intended for clinics serving the most impoverished regions in Africa.

With these contraceptives effectively in limbo, the managing contractor explored options to transfer the stock to other organizations. Among those interested was the United Nations’ primary sexual and reproductive health agency, the U.N. Population Fund. Additionally, the nonprofit MSI Reproductive Choices proposed taking over the storage and distribution of the contraceptives at no cost to the U.S. government.

Despite these alternatives, it was revealed last month that the U.S. government opted to proceed with burning the contraceptives, incurring over $160,000 in transportation and incineration expenses.

Sarah Shaw, associate director of advocacy at MSI Reproductive Choices, criticized the decision, noting, "The dismantling of U.S.A.I.D. was purportedly to prevent waste and ensure fiscal responsibility for American taxpayers. It is shocking that $9 million worth of urgently needed contraceptives are being discarded."

She added, "The lack of access to these contraceptives will have fatal consequences for women who depend on them."