Male contraception has re entered political debate at the European level, not from a progressive angle but as a strategy framed around abortion prevention. German Member of the European Parliament Peter Liese, a representative of the centre right European People’s Party and a member of the Parliament’s health committee, has been actively promoting the idea that expanding contraceptive options for men could play a significant role in reducing unwanted pregnancies and, consequently, the number of abortions.

Liese, who worked as a physician before entering politics, argues that opposition to abortion should logically go hand in hand with strong support for male contraception. In his view, preventing fertilisation entirely makes debates about the beginning of life irrelevant. He has also spoken openly about his Catholic faith, stating that the availability of male contraception should be welcomed by the Catholic Church, as unwanted pregnancies often lead to abortions. This position, however, goes beyond official Catholic doctrine, which rejects artificial contraception in favour of natural family planning.

The issue remains divisive within the European Parliament. In December, a resolution on access to abortion was adopted by a narrow margin, despite strong resistance from right wing groups and part of the EPP. Peter Liese was among those who voted against it, highlighting the internal contradictions and tensions surrounding reproductive rights within conservative political families.

To advance male contraception from a political argument to a practical reality, Liese has joined forces with European Parliament Vice President Katarina Barley. In November, the two sent a formal letter to the European Medicines Agency asking why no concrete steps had been taken to develop regulatory guidelines for male contraceptives. The EMA has responded that no pharmaceutical company has formally requested such guidelines, but Liese and Barley argue that the lack of guidelines itself discourages companies from investing in this area.

Another obstacle cited by the EMA has been concern over side effects and the assumption that men do not receive a direct biological benefit from contraception, as they cannot become pregnant. Liese strongly disputes this reasoning, pointing out that women have long carried the physical burden of contraception, often experiencing significant side effects, while men have had very limited options.

According to Liese, recent discussions between experts, EMA officials and members of the European Parliament suggest that progress may finally be within reach. Guidelines for male contraception could be issued within the year, with expert consultations expected to begin soon. This would mark a crucial step toward enabling clinical research and market development.

Beyond regulatory pressure, male contraception may also find a place in upcoming European legislation. Liese and Barley are exploring amendments to the Biotech Act, proposed by the European Commission, at a moment when several biotech companies are beginning to explore male contraceptive technologies. Discussions with members of the Committee on Industry, Research and Energy are expected as parliamentary debates on the Act begin.

Funding is another key issue. Liese has announced plans to advocate for dedicated financial support for male contraception research within the next Multiannual Financial Framework, engaging both the European Commission and the German government. The debate unfolds against a broader political backdrop in Germany, where the Christian Democrats recently blocked a judicial candidate over her pro abortion views, underscoring how deeply polarising reproductive rights remain.

Source: Euractiv, “MEP Liese pushes male contraception as abortion prevention”, available at https://www.euractiv.com/news/mep-liese-pushes-male-contraception-as-abortion-prevention/