The other emergency after the earthquake: Profamilia warns of barriers in contraception, HIV and care for pregnant women amid the tragedy
Three weeks after an earthquake struck Colombia on August 10, Profamilia has raised concerns about the ongoing challenges in accessing reproductive health services during the disaster recovery period. While humanitarian efforts focus on immediate needs like medical care, food, shelter, and water, the organization highlights that critical services such as contraception, HIV treatment, prenatal care, and support for survivors of sexual violence remain under threat. Eleven Profamilia centers were damaged by the earthquake, with four still fully closed as of August 31. The situation underscores the neglect of sexual and reproductive rights in emergency contexts, with leaders emphasizing that these needs do not disappear during crises and require urgent attention.
The Pope, Leo XIV, called President Abelardo De La Espriella of Colombia on August 10, 2026, following the country’s magnitude-7.4 earthquake. According to the Vatican Press Office, the call took place in the morning and included expressions of solidarity with the nation after the disaster. During the conversation, the Pope conveyed his support for victims, emphasizing particular concern for families of deceased individuals, injured persons, rescue teams, and humanitarian workers operating in affected areas. Leo XIV appointed Monsignor Angelo Accattino as the Apostolic Nuncio to Colombia. In previous public statements, the Pope has addressed issues related to violence, peace, and reconciliation in Colombia. Following recent violent incidents, he expressed closeness to victims and urged rejection of all forms of violence. The Pope also sent a telegram through Cardinal Pietro Parolin expressing deep sorrow over the tragedy, which resulted in deaths, injuries, and extensive property damage. He offered prayers for the eternal rest of the deceased and wished recovery for the affected, while extending condolences to their families. President De La Espriella, a lawyer and businessman, founded the political movement Defensores de la Patria in 2024. He won the second round of elections on July 21, 2026, and was sworn in as president on August 7, three days before the earthquake struck. The Pope’s message included a plea for spiritual strength and Christian hope among Colombians, and he invoked the intercession of Mary, particularly for communities in need of comfort and hope, including those in the Holy Land, Ukraine, and Russia. Three weeks after the earthquake, concerns emerged regarding access to reproductive health services. Profamilia, a Colombian organization focused on sexual and reproductive rights, warned that barriers persist in obtaining contraception, HIV treatment, prenatal care, and post-violence support amid the ongoing crisis. As of August 31, 2026, four of Profamilia’s clinics remained fully closed due to infrastructure damage: Quibdó, Cali Tequendama, Cali Fertilidad, and Dosquebradas. While some facilities have been temporarily reopened, others continue to undergo safety assessments and repairs. Marta Royo, CEO of Profamilia, emphasized that health needs such as menstrual care, pregnancy management, and HIV treatment should not be overlooked during emergencies. She stressed that these services remain essential even amidst the broader humanitarian response. The organization noted that the earthquake disrupted its operations, requiring gradual restoration of services. Despite the challenges, Profamilia continues to advocate for comprehensive healthcare access, highlighting that these needs are critical to overall well-being. In 2025, Profamilia supported 56 cases related to HIV prevention and treatment. The situation underscores the complexity of maintaining essential health services during large-scale disasters.
The Pope, León XIV, called President Abelardo De La Espriella of Colombia to express solidarity after a magnitude 7.4 earthquake struck the country on August 10, 2026. The call occurred just three days after the president took office on August 7, 2026, following his victory in the July 21, 2026 election. During the conversation, the Pope expressed deep sorrow over the disaster, which resulted in deaths, injuries, and significant material damage. He offered prayers for the deceased, wished recovery for the affected, and commended rescue workers and volunteers. The Pope also extended condolences to families and urged spiritual strength and Christian hope for Colombians.
Bias read (Center): While the article discusses a high-profile political figure (the Pope) engaging with a Colombian leader, the framing remains neutral. It presents the Pope’s actions and statements without overtly praising or criticizing either side. The focus is on the humanitarian response to the earthquake rather
Why factuality (90): The article confirms a phone call between Pope Leo XIV and President Abelardo De La Espriella following the earthquake, citing the Vatican Press Office as the source. It includes specific dates and mentions the pope’s public statements on violence and reconciliation. The information appears consiste
Why objectivity (85): The article maintains a neutral tone, presenting the facts about the papal call and the pope’s public messages. There is no evident emotional language or one-sided framing. The focus is on reporting the event rather than taking a stance on religious or political matters.
Three weeks after an earthquake struck Colombia on August 10, Profamilia has raised concerns about the ongoing challenges in accessing reproductive health services during the disaster recovery period. While humanitarian efforts focus on immediate needs like medical care, food, shelter, and water, the organization highlights that critical services such as contraception, HIV treatment, prenatal care, and support for survivors of sexual violence remain under threat. Eleven Profamilia centers were damaged by the earthquake, with four still fully closed as of August 31. The situation underscores the neglect of sexual and reproductive rights in emergency contexts, with leaders emphasizing that these needs do not disappear during crises and require urgent attention.
Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the issue of access to reproductive healthcare as a critical but overlooked aspect of disaster response, aligning with progressive advocacy for women’s rights and social welfare. It emphasizes the need for comprehensive, inclusive humanitarian aid that addresses non-traditional 'v
Why factuality (85): The article reports on the impact of the earthquake on access to reproductive health services, citing Profamilia as an organization affected by the disaster. It provides specific details about the number of clinics closed and the types of services impacted. While there is no primary source, the info
Why objectivity (75): The tone is informative but leans slightly towards highlighting the overlooked issue of reproductive health during a disaster. The article presents the situation from the perspective of Profamilia, which may introduce a bias toward emphasizing the importance of these services. However, it remains la
El EspectadorIndependentCenterFactual 70Objective 708/30/2026
The article discusses how damage from a recent earthquake was mapped using WhatsApp. It highlights the role of social media in disaster response, particularly in areas affected by the quake. Citizens and local authorities used the platform to report damages, share information, and coordinate relief efforts. This method allowed for real-time updates and improved communication during the crisis. The approach demonstrates the growing importance of technology in emergency management.
Bias read (Center): The article focuses on the use of WhatsApp for mapping earthquake damage, which is a technological application rather than a politically charged issue. There is no indication of bias in the framing or emphasis of the content.
Why factuality (70): The article briefly mentions the use of WhatsApp to map damage from the earthquake but lacks detailed information or sources. It is incomplete and does not provide sufficient context or data to assess the full scope of the initiative. Without additional information, it is difficult to verify the acc
Why objectivity (70): The article is brief and lacks depth, making it challenging to evaluate objectivity. It does not present multiple perspectives or contextualize the use of WhatsApp for mapping damages. The tone is neutral, but the lack of detail makes it less objective in terms of providing comprehensive coverage.
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How each side covered it
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