The ramifications of this directive extend beyond LGBTI+ organizations. Civil society as a whole, particularly human rights defenders, women’s rights groups, and organizations advocating for marginalized communities, could all be at risk. The directive’s broad language around “ideological projects” and “national interest” raises concerns about selective enforcement and potential retaliation against groups whose missions do not align with conservative agendas.

As we mourn the loss of Imaam Muhsin Hendricks, we must also reflect on the broader fight for LGBTQ+ rights, recognizing that legal reforms are only one part of the struggle. True safety and acceptance demand societal change, including within religious communities.

Here’s the harsh truth: banning abortion only bans safe abortion. People will always seek ways to end unwanted pregnancies, whether legal or not.
According to the World Health Organization, unsafe abortions are a leading cause of maternal deaths globally. When legal pathways are closed, individuals especially those in marginalized communities are forced to resort to unsafe, life-threatening procedures. This is not about reducing abortions; it’s about controlling bodies and denying reproductive autonomy.