Protecting Global Human Rights and Health from the Adverse Impact of the 2nd Trump Administration

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2025.1.23

On January 20, the 2nd Trump administration was inaugurated in the United States. This marks a pivotal moment that threatens to undo decades of progress made by countless individuals who have tirelessly fought for fundamental human rights. JOICFP is deeply concerned about the potential reversal of hard-won advancements and the broader implications for the global progress on human rights, equity, and health.

The Trump administration has signed an executive order denying gender diversity, recognizing only men and women. This action undermines the inherent rights of LGBTQ+ individuals (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Questioning/Queer) to live true to themselves and protect their health. These rights — central to personal dignity and freedom — are now under threat, jeopardizing access to healthcare and the ability to live without discrimination or fear.

The situation is further exacerbated by the termination of the U.S. government’s initiatives in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). This shift would impact not only LGBTQ+ individuals but also others, including people with disabilities, non-white communities, and women. These populations are at risk of being further marginalized, losing opportunities for growth and leadership. Alarmingly, several global corporations have already indicated their intention to follow this policy direction, foreshadowing a ripple effect that could extend far beyond the United States, with potential global repercussions.

The United States, as the largest donor supporting the World Health Organization (WHO), plays a pivotal role in global public health. However, its withdrawal from the organization will have far-reaching negative impacts on global health. While it is widely known that Robert F. Kennedy Jr., appointed as secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services under the Trump administration, is a vocal anti-vaccine advocate, the implications of this stance are especially concerning in today’s interconnected world, where infectious diseases can quickly cross borders. Coupled with the U.S. exit from the WHO, the Trump administration’s actions are poised to significantly undermine global efforts to safeguard public health.

Climate change, another pressing global issue, will likely be worsened under the Trump administration. While low- and middle-income countries produce only a fraction of global greenhouse gas emissions, most of the affected 3.6 billion people reside in those countries. These individuals are already facing systemic barriers to healthcare, leaving their health and well-being at heightened risk. Women, in particular, face disproportionate impacts, as climate change exacerbates existing inequalities and vulnerabilities. The U.S. withdrawal from the Paris Agreement, combined with the administration’s promotion of gender inequality, not only accelerates environmental degradation but also severely undermines women’s Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR), further jeopardizing their health and empowerment.

Furthermore, an executive order to suspend all U.S. foreign aid for 90 days while undergoing review raises additional concerns about the impact on global health, particularly in low- and middle-income countries and conflict zones. The likely reinstatement of the “Global Gag Rule” — a policy historically revived by Republican administrations — could severely hinder progress in advancing SRHR. This would slow essential initiatives in maternal and child health, family planning, safe abortion access, adolescent health, and the prevention and treatment of HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted infections.

The policies of the Trump administration not only deepen divisions within the United States but also have the potential to ripple across the globe. These divides threaten to worsen the plight of already vulnerable populations, making more people marginalized by systemic inequalities. Ultimately, more people around the world will see their SRHR endangered, creating an urgent call to action.

Aiming at SRHR for All, our mission is to build a world where everyone — regardless of gender, identity, or circumstance — has access to the healthcare and resources they need to live with dignity, free from discrimination, coercion, exploitation, and violence.
Fortunately, JOICFP does not rely on U.S. government funding, so our work will not be directly affected by these changes. However, we have already seen some of our corporate partners scale back their previously robust DEI efforts in response to the administration’s stance. This indicates that the ripple effects of these policies are already taking shape and will likely continue to pose challenges.

In the face of these obstacles, JOICFP remains steadfast in its commitment to promoting and protecting SRHR. We will continue to expand our grassroots initiatives to deliver vital information and improve access to healthcare for those who need it most. At the same time, we will redouble our global advocacy efforts to defend SRHR as a universal human right.

Now more than ever, your support is essential. Together, we can mitigate the negative impacts of these policies and continue working toward a more equitable and just world. Let us join hands and move forward with determination and hope.