Luxembourg Tops 2024 Contraception Access Rankings; Eastern Europe Lags
The European Contraception Policy Atlas, published by the European Parliamentary Forum for Sexual & Reproductive Rights (EPF), has revealed the 2024 rankings for contraception access. Luxembourg, the UK, France, and Belgium top the list, while Poland, Hungary, Armenia, Cyprus, Turkey, and Russia lag behind.
Over the past year, 14 countries improved their rankings, 5 experienced setbacks, and 27 remained unchanged. Eastern Europe has more countries with poor rankings compared to Northern and Western Europe. The best performing countries offer contraception coverage within national health systems, accessible consultations, government-supported websites, and free or partially covered emergency contraception. Luxembourg's score improved from 60.9 to 94.2 percent in seven years by implementing a universal contraception program and making condoms widely available. Poland plans to make emergency contraception available without a prescription and has appointed a Minister for Equality to improve women's rights. The worst performing countries lack national health service coverage for adults, government websites, and accessible emergency contraception. The report ranks 47 countries, including Israel for the first time, based on access to contraception supplies, counselling, and online information. EPF recommends national health system coverage, accessible counselling, and public health information to improve contraception access.
The 2024 European Contraception Policy Atlas highlights the disparities in contraception access across the continent. While some countries have made significant strides, others continue to lag behind. EPF's recommendations aim to improve access to contraception supplies, counselling, and online information, ensuring that everyone has the means to make informed decisions about their reproductive health.