Work

Bridging borders: shared strategies and challenges in abortion advocacy movements in Latin America and the United States

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Background: Feminist mobilization throughout Latin America has led a significant transformation in abortion policies, most widely known through the Marea Verde (Green Wave) movement. Concurrently, the United States has pushed abortion policies backward and this has accelerated following the 2022 Dobbs v. Jackson decision. Despite divergent legal and political trajectories, both regions face common challenges in abortion advocacy, shaped by distinct social movement traditions, political contexts, and histories of state-society relations. Methods: This qualitative study draws on 45 semi-structured interviews with activists, advocates, and experts in Argentina, Colombia, Mexico, and the United States. Guided by social movement theory, we conducted a comparative thematic analysis of interview data. Results: We identified ten key themes, organized within a model of social movement stages: problem recognition, proposed solutions, triggering events, openness to change, and resource mobilization. While context-specific strategies varied, the struggles and lessons learned were strikingly similar across geographies. Conclusions: Our findings challenge the notion that abortion advocacy movements are too contextually distinct for meaningful comparison. Instead, we demonstrate that shared challenges transcend national boundaries. We argue for the value of transnational dialogue and participatory research in strengthening abortion rights and reproductive justice movements. Policy and practice implications include investing in intersectional coalitions, prioritizing implementation, addressing processes of abortion-related stigmatization, and supporting grassroots efforts. Future research should expand comparative analyses and explore the evolving roles of digital and self-managed abortion activism.

Source: Frontiers in Global Women s Health

DOI: 10.3389/fgwh.2026.1852517

Authors: Gabriela Alvarado, Paige Logan Prater, Elena Rodriguez Sanchez, Erin Leasure, Jessica Ogden

Institutions: International Center for Research on Women, University of California, San Francisco, Ipas

Language: English

Topic: Feminism, Gender, and Social Issues

Subfield: Gender Studies

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Peace, justice, and strong institutions, Gender equality, Reduced inequalities

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,077