Infertility and involuntary childlessness are critical challenges in Europe, affecting one in six couples, meaning we all know someone facing barriers to conception. These issues extend beyond personal struggles; they shape the future of our societies and test the European Union’s commitment to fairness and equality.
Involuntary childlessness impacts all communities, but marginalised groups, such as people with disabilities or chronic diseases, people of colour, LGBTQIA+ communities, single parents, those from low-income backgrounds, and immigrant or asylum-seeking populations, face even greater obstacles. Prohibitive costs, limited access to care, and inadequate sexual education expose the gap between Europe’s values and its reality.
Discrimination based on age, religion, or cultural beliefs further restricts access to fertility services. Economic pressures, such as high living costs, unstable job prospects, and insufficient social support, force many to delay or reconsider starting a family. Meanwhile, environmental and climate concerns complicate these decisions, contributing to Europe’s demographic challenges.
We advocate for an EU that treats reproductive autonomy and fertility care as fundamental human rights, grounded in social justice
Recent efforts in reproductive health at the EU level, such as the 2021 European Parliament resolution on sexual and reproductive health and rights and the EU4Health Programme, have been positive steps forward. The 2022 Conference on the Future of Europe further highlighted the need to ensure access to reproductive treatments for all. Yet, significant gaps remain. Disparities in policies on access and funding driven by legal, financial, educational, and social factors continue to hinder progress. Addressing these disparities is essential for a fair and just Europe.
As the EU embarks on a new policy cycle, we must prioritise reproductive autonomy for all. The upcoming Gender Equality Strategy and Roadmap for Women’s Rights provide opportunities to address involuntary childlessness more comprehensively. Our commitment must include all marginalised groups, recognising that involuntary childlessness is not just a medical issue, but a deeply personal experience shaped by stigma and discrimination.
This is why we are launching the Coalition for Fertility: a partnership of (to date) 12 organisations from across Europe and beyond, representing those affected by involuntary childlessness, medical professionals, and advocates for women’s rights, mental health, and reproductive rights. United in our mission, we aim to ensure everyone – regardless of gender identity, economic background, or ethnicity – has access to fertility treatments, comprehensive sex education, and family planning support. We advocate for an EU that treats reproductive autonomy and fertility care as fundamental human rights, grounded in social justice.
Now is the time for action. With progress uneven across EU member states, our coalition calls on policymakers to address infertility and involuntary childlessness at both national and European levels. We are ready to work with governments, European institutions, and civil society to implement policies that guarantee reproductive autonomy and equitable access to fertility treatments for all who need it.
Together, we can create a future where everyone has the right and opportunity to build the family they desire – free from fear, discrimination and stigma. We urge all those committed to a fairer, more inclusive Europe to join us in this crucial effort.