The Population and Poverty (PopPov) Research Network brings together researchers who are examining how population dynamics affect economic outcomes, primarily in African countries. The overarching vision is one of a Network where results, methodological advances, and policy impacts are shared across research teams and eventually translated into policy recommendations.

In this interview, PopPov researcher Joseph Babigumira of the University of Washington shares research findings on abortions in Uganda, which are a consequence of the high prevalence of unintended pregnancies, a result of the high level of unmet need for contraception. Since abortion is illegal in Uganda, it is usually performed in clandestine, unhygienic places by undertrained and unskilled practitioners; and is associated with a wide range of complications and myriad health and economic consequences.