The Coalition for Fertility, an alliance of 12 leading organisations advocating for reproductive and family rights, opposes the exclusionary narrative presented at the second edition of the ECR Family Congress in Dubrovnik.

"The ECR's vision of family stands in stark contrast to the inclusive policies Europe needs," said Klaudija Kordic, Chair of Fertility Europe. "We urge EU policymakers to support fertility policies that respect the diversity of families and ensure reproductive rights for all—regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, or socioeconomic status."

As a coalition committed to reproductive justice, we advocate for the right of every individual to build the family they choose, free from economic, social, or political barriers. The ECR’s emphasis on traditional family structures disregards the realities faced by millions of Europeans, particularly those pushed behind, including LGBTQI+ individuals, people of colour, and people with disabilities.

ENDORSING THE POLITICS OF INCLUSION

At our Coalition launch this week, with broad political backing from MEPs across the EU and political groups, we reaffirmed that reproductive autonomy is a fundamental right. Our Joint Declaration calls for universal access to fertility care, comprehensive sexuality education, and policies that recognise the diversity of present family structures.

Our coalition stands for policies that reflect the lived experiences of everyone. Family and reproductive rights are not a privilege; it is a matter of social justice and human rights. We advocate for a “Fertility in all Policies” approach, ensuring that policies in areas like healthcare, housing, the environment, and employment consider the impact on fertility and reproductive rights.

A CALL FOR RIGHTS-BASED POLICIES

EU’s policies must address the real barriers that people face: infertility, economic hardship, and systemic discrimination. We stand for inclusive, rights-based and gender-equal policies that respect all individuals' choices and realities. 

As a Coalition, we call on European leaders to use inclusive and respectful narratives in the area of sexual and reproductive health and rights, and work towards policies that ensure reproductive autonomy for all. For more information, read our latest opinion piece in The Parliament Magazine, visit www.coalitionforfertility.eu or contact our advocacy manager, Anita Fincham, at coalition@fertilityeurope.eu.