The Coalition for Fertility is pleased to welcome the European Commission’s newly published Gender Equality Strategy for 2026–2030 as a significant step towards achieving a more equitable Europe. This announcement, made just ahead of International Women’s Day on 8 March, highlights the critical need to integrate reproductive autonomy into the EU’s gender equality agenda.

In our formal contribution to the public consultation, we expressed our concerns about persistent challenges in sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR), including gender gaps in medical research and treatment. The Coalition also applauds the SHIELD initiative, which aims to enhance access to SRHR in humanitarian contexts, reinforcing the Commission's commitment to improving reproductive health policies.

However, we are disappointed by the omission of fertility from the strategy. This exclusion fails to recognise the gendered dimensions of involuntary childlessness and the healthcare needs of those affected. Access to fertility treatments, such as IVF, is essential for reproductive autonomy, yet coverage remains inconsistent across Member States. Furthermore, existing eligibility rules often discriminate against non-heterosexual couples, perpetuating inequalities in care access.

Maciej Śmiechowski, Chair of Fertility Europe, emphasised, “Reproductive autonomy must encompass the right to build a family without stigma or economic barriers. To foster genuine equality, fertility must be included in the targets and funding of the next Multiannual Financial Framework 2028-2034.”

The Coalition for Fertility is ready to collaborate with EU institutions to ensure that reproductive autonomy, including fertility, is prioritised in health policies and funding over the 2026–2030 period. We believe that addressing these gaps will contribute to a more inclusive and equitable Europe.

For more information, visit our website or contact Anita Fincham, Advocacy Manager, Fertility Europe at anita@fertilityeurope.eu.

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