Incorporating FP into the new UN Commission on Commodities

On 20 January, 34 representatives from across the Coalition  and the global family planning community met at UNFPA headquarters in New York to begin framing the collection of information on family planning commodities for the soon to be launched UN Commission on Commodities for Women’s and Children’s Health. 

The group focused their attention on three commodities – female condoms, emergency contraception, and implants – methods chosen not only because they reflect the principles espoused by the Commission, but also because the access issues they face are broadly representative of those faced by all contraceptives, and particularly those outside mainstream donor and corporate priorities. The Coalition's Caucus on New and Underused RH Technologies directly influenced the selection of these three commodities.

At the all-day event, which was facilitated by Beth Frederick of Advance Family Planning, participants developed templates for the analysis of each commodity; identified data sources and gaps for the assessment; and assigned roles and responsibilities for data collection and write-up. Discussions are underway within the Coalition’s RMAWG to serve as a clearinghouse for information and updates on the UN Commission on Commodities. In the meantime, minutes of the January meeting are available here.  

Categories: Featured, New/Underused RH Technologies Caucus, Advocacy and Accountability Working Group