The Helms Amendment, and Why It Needs to End

The Helms Amendment, passed by the U.S. Congress in 1973 in the wake of Roe v. Wade, is a barrier to sexual and reproductive health and rights globally. It inhibits governments from implementing national and local health-related laws and policies, prevents healthcare providers from providing services, and is an impediment to the healthcare that people want and need around the world. This fact sheet covers the policy and legislative context for the Helms Amendment, describes how it is out of step with international movements and standards, and outlines the impacts of abortion restrictions on health outcomes.