The State Department is set to finalize an expansion of the Mexico City policy, which bars U.S. foreign aid from being used to support abortions and initiatives linked to gender, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. This move, described as significant, was reported by Fox News Digital.
The Mexico City policy, introduced under President Reagan in the 1980s, requires organizations receiving U.S. foreign aid to confirm that they do not promote or provide abortions as a family planning method. This policy originated during the 1984 United Nations Population Conference to ensure U.S. funds weren’t used to endorse abortions abroad.
On Friday, the State Department plans to unveil three new rules broadening this policy, which will apply to all non-military foreign aid exceeding $30 billion. These rules will mandate that foreign NGOs and international groups receiving U.S. aid certify they do not promote abortion, gender ideologies, or engage in unlawful discrimination related to equity and inclusion.
Similar requirements will be applied to U.S.-based NGOs operating outside the country. Previously, U.S. funding had been restricted solely to organizations promoting or providing abortion as a family planning method. Under President Trump, the policy was expanded during his first term to encompass around $8 billion in global health assistance.
Typically, Democratic administrations rescind this policy. For instance, President Biden did so early in his term in 2021, arguing that these restrictions undermine efforts to advance gender equality and support programs related to women’s health and violence against women. On the other hand, Republican presidents like Trump tend to reinstate it.
These new rules will be announced during the March for Life in Washington, D.C., an event that gathers many pro-life advocates who march for the rights of unborn children. Vice President J.D. Vance is expected to participate and speak at this event.
Trump has consistently emphasized the importance of this policy, claiming it demonstrates a commitment to “protecting the unborn” and reflects broader efforts to roll back federal policies that promote progressive social beliefs.
