President Donald Trump's administration commemorated the fifth anniversary of the Geneva Consensus Declaration, a coalition of 32 nations dedicated to the protection of human life from conception, the integrity of the family, and the sovereignty of nations in policy-making. The anniversary event, held last week, served as a platform to reinforce the administration's position against international imposition of abortion policy.
In 2021, the Biden administration withdrew from the Geneva Consensus, but with President Trump's return to office, the U.S. has rejoined the declaration. The president's message, delivered in a letter and read to those gathered, underscored his administration's unwavering commitment to "restoring a culture that values the inherent dignity of every child." The letter, shared on social media, further emphasized the role of the family as a cornerstone for prosperous communities and the intrinsic worth of individuals.
Jim O’Neill, Deputy Secretary of Health and Human Services, lauded the U.S. recommitment to the declaration, expressing the view that policies supporting life are fundamental to societal well-being. He criticized what he termed as radical agendas that "reject biological realities," highlighting their potential threat to community stability. O'Neill detailed steps the administration has taken, such as reinstating the Mexico City Policy, which withholds U.S. funding from foreign organizations that perform or promote abortion, and removing "trans" flags from federal buildings, as expressions of the administration's broader commitment to life.
Furthermore, O'Neill condemned taxpayer-funded medical interventions for minors that may have irreversible consequences, arguing for the protection of children's health and development. Deputy Secretary of State Chris Landau joined in emphasizing the right of each country to determine its own policies without external influence, noting the challenges posed by declining birth rates globally.
Representative Chris Smith (R-NJ) advocated for pro-life initiatives at the international level, specifically discussing the dangers associated with abortion pills in regions with limited medical oversight. He called for increased accountability and transparency to protect women and children from unsafe medical practices.
The anniversary event, hosted by the Institute of Women’s Health, attracted lawmakers, global officials, and representatives of the Trump administration. Speakers criticized the United Nations' abortion advocacy as being in conflict with human rights standards, especially in countries with selective enforcement such as China, Saudi Arabia, and Venezuela.
By linking moral imperatives to governance, the Trump administration has positioned the protection of life and family as fundamental to both domestic policy and international diplomacy. The administration continues to express dedication to safeguarding unborn children, promoting national sovereignty, and the self-determination of nations worldwide.