Planned Parenthood Applauds President Biden’s Latest Nomination to Rebuild Global Partnerships and Advance Global Health
For Immediate Release: Sept. 27, 2021
Dr. John Nkengasong, who has extensive experience working in public health, would be the first person of African origin to serve in this role
WASHINGTON, DC — Today, President Biden announced his intent to nominate Dr. John Nkengasong to serve as the United States Global AIDS Coordinator. This important partner is critical to Planned Parenthood’s work expanding access to essential and lifesaving health care around the world. This position leads the U.S. global HIV response and plays a role in advancing reproductive health and the empowerment of women and girls towards the greater goal of gender equality.
As the world continues to face the COVID-19 pandemic, rallying together to make progress on global health priorities — including HIV and reproductive health care — Dr. Nkengasong will hit the ground running to protect and advance health care and human rights for everyone.
Statement from Alexis McGill Johnson, president and CEO, Planned Parenthood Federation of America
Planned Parenthood applauds this historic nomination. We are excited for Dr. John Nkengasong to play a key role in delivering on the Biden-Harris administration’s commitment to sexual and reproductive health and rights — at home and globally. His experience and commitment tackling health inequities and his deep understanding of public health make him the right person for this role. We look forward to working together to expand access to comprehensive sexual and reproductive health information and services, including HIV prevention and treatment, equitable care for LGBTQ+ people, inclusive sex education, integrated family planning and HIV services, and ensuring no one is left behind in the global HIV response.
Dr. Nkengasong has extensive experience in expanding access to health care globally, tackling major health-related challenges, and leading with science and data. His commitment to equity and public health will be essential to the urgent work ahead and expanding health care. Dr. Nkengasong was born in Cameroon, making him the first person of African origin to serve in this position, if confirmed.
The Office of the U.S. Global AIDS Coordinator (OGAC) leads the U.S. President's Emergency Plan For AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), which is the U.S.’s largest global health program. Policies like the global gag rule and the Helms Amendment have undermined the critical work of OGAC and its ability to meet people’s comprehensive needs.
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Planned Parenthood is the nation’s leading provider and advocate of high-quality, affordable sexual and reproductive health care for all people, as well as the nation’s largest provider of sex education. With more than 600 health centers across the country, Planned Parenthood organizations serve all patients with care and compassion, with respect, and without judgment, striving to create equitable access to health care. Through health centers, programs in schools and communities, and online resources, Planned Parenthood is a trusted source of reliable education and information that allows people to make informed health decisions. We do all this because we care passionately about helping people lead healthier lives. Planned Parenthood Federation of America (PPFA) is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization that supports the independently incorporated Planned Parenthood affiliates operating health centers across the U.S.
For 50 years, Planned Parenthood Global has supported access to sexual and reproductive health care and advocated for reproductive rights around the world. In partnership with nearly 100 organizations across nine focus countries in Africa and Latin America, we advance the health and rights of young people, women and families, with an emphasis on the most vulnerable and underserved. Each year, our partners provide sexual and reproductive health information and services to nearly 2 million people. Our unique sustainability model sets us apart, as we empower partners to stand on their own. We help grassroots organizations develop solid reproductive health programs, identify other sources of funding, build their communications and advocacy skills, and develop strategic plans. Planned Parenthood Global is the international arm of Planned Parenthood Federation of America.