Quick Case – MORNING AFTER ISLAND (HONDURAS)
MORNING AFTER ISLAND (HONDURAS)
Gepae: Shifting the National Dialogue and Legislation on Emergency Contraception
Brief Description
In Honduras, access to certain forms of contraception, such as the morning-after pill, has been constrained by strict laws and cultural norms. The country’s conservative
reproductive health policies, influenced by societal and religious beliefs, have historically limited or prohibited the availability of emergency contraception.
A platform was constructed off the coast to raise public awareness, advocate for policy change, and assist women facing difficulties. While on this sea platform,
Honduran women can safely and legally access the morning-after pill, deemed illegal on Honduran soil.
Known as the ‘Morning After Island,’ this platform was established by Grupo Estratégico PAE (GEPAE), a charitable organization dedicated to advocating for women’s birth control rights in the country. GEPAE also facilitated the distribution of the pill to hundreds of women in need.
Why is it significant?
The campaign initiated by Gepae not only gained momentum but transcended borders, capturing global attention. Widespread discussion and sharing of the campaign, including by social media influencers, culminated in coverage by CNN International, elevating the issue to a new level of recognition.
As a result of this amplified attention, GEPAE activists were recognized and invited to engage directly with the Honduran president. This interaction led to remarkable outcomes, notably the establishment of an entirely new Ministry of Women and the legislation proposal to safeguard the sexual, reproductive, and civil rights of millions of Honduran women.
The pinnacle of this movement’s impact came in 2023 when Honduras, under its first-ever female president, achieved a significant milestone by legalizing the morning-after pill.
The success story of Gepae showcases the power of advocacy, mobilization, and media attention in effecting substantial social and legislative change.