The U.S. government is reportedly considering the incineration of nearly $9.7 million worth of purchased birth control stockpile in Belgium, following the recent shutdown of USAID. The warehouse in Geel, Belgium, which had stored millions of contraceptives procured by USAID, appears to be a potential target for this disposal process.
Details about the specific steps being taken to carry out the incineration remain scarce, with U.S. officials refusing to comment on the matter. However, European officials have expressed alarm over the potential disposal of a stockpile that was intended to support family planning initiatives across several African and Asian countries.
The decision follows the shutdown of USAID, a federal agency responsible for foreign assistance programs, including family planning initiatives. Critics argue that the incineration of these medical supplies could have significant repercussions, particularly for the communities that relied on these resources for reproductive health services.