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EU Reviews Funding for Anti-Abortion Charity After Disinformation Claims
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Brussels is reassessing a €120,000 grant awarded to the anti-abortion association Life Has value following an inquiry by openDemocracy. The review comes after the outlet revealed the charity received funding for a project focused on reproductive health, despite actively disseminating what critics describe as abortion disinformation.
The grant, awarded under the EU’s Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values (CERV) programme, was intended to support projects promoting gender equality and combating violence against women. openDemocracy’s reporting highlighted instances where Life Has Value shared demonstrably false claims about abortion procedures and their alleged psychological effects.
openDemocracy’s Findings
openDemocracy’s investigation found that Life Has value routinely publishes content alleging that abortion causes mental health problems, a claim repeatedly debunked by major medical organizations. The charity also promotes the idea that abortion is equivalent to infanticide. these claims are not based on scientific evidence and contribute to a harmful narrative that stigmatizes abortion care,
stated Dr. Clare Murphy, Chief Executive of the British Pregnancy Advisory Service (BPAS), in a statement to openDemocracy.
Did You Know?
The CERV program has a budget of over €288 million for 2021-2027, aiming to support civil society organizations working on basic rights and values.
EU Response and Potential consequences
Following the publication of openDemocracy’s report, the European commission stated it is taking the allegations “very seriously.” An EU spokesperson confirmed that the Commission is now reviewing the grant agreement with Life Has Value to determine whether any breaches of contract have occurred.Potential consequences include the suspension or cancellation of the funding.
The controversy raises questions about the EU’s due diligence processes when awarding grants to organizations with strong ideological positions on sensitive issues. Critics argue that the Commission should have more robust mechanisms to vet applicants and ensure their activities align with EU values.
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| 2024 (report Date) | openDemocracy publishes investigation |
| Following Report | EU Commission initiates funding review |
| grant Amount | €120,000 |
| Program | CERV (Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values) |
Pro Tip: Always verify information from multiple sources, especially when dealing with sensitive topics like reproductive health.
Life Has Value’s Response
Life Has Value has defended its work, claiming that it provides “much-needed support to women who regret their abortions.” the charity maintains that its information is accurate and based on the experiences of women who have contacted them.They have not directly addressed the specific claims made by openDemocracy regarding the dissemination of disinformation.
“We are committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for all women, regardless of their choices.” – Life Has Value spokesperson (as reported by openDemocracy)
This case highlights the growing scrutiny of organizations that receive EU funding and the importance of ensuring that such funding is not used to promote harmful or misleading information. The outcome of the EU’s review could set a precedent for future grant allocations.
What safeguards should the EU implement to prevent funding organizations that spread disinformation? How can civil society organizations effectively hold the EU accountable for its grant-making decisions?
Background: Disinformation and Reproductive Health
The spread of disinformation about abortion is a global issue, often fueled by politically motivated groups. This disinformation can have serious consequences, including limiting access to safe and legal abortion care and contributing to stigma and shame. The World Health Organization (WHO) recognizes access to safe abortion as an essential component of comprehensive reproductive health care. WHO Fact Sheet on Abortion
