Étienne-Émile Baulieu, the French scientist instrumental in the development of the abortion pill RU-486, passed away at his home in Paris at 98 years old. Known widely as mifepristone, this oral medication has given millions of women around the globe a safer and more affordable alternative to surgical abortions. His wife, Simone Harari Baulieu, shared the news, highlighting his lifelong dedication to scientific progress and women's rights.
French President Emmanuel Macron praised him as "a beacon of courage" and a pivotal figure who advanced women's freedom. He noted that very few individuals have influenced the world to such an extent. Gender equality minister Aurore Bergé remarked that his work was fundamentally rooted in promoting human dignity.
Born Étienne Blum on December 12, 1926, in Strasbourg, Dr. Baulieu adopted his new name during his teenage years while fighting against Nazi occupation. After completing his education, he ventured to the U.S. to collaborate with Dr. Gregory Pincus, a key figure in contraceptive research, which shaped his future work on sex hormones.
Baulieu developed a revolutionary method to inhibit progesterone, necessary for embryo implantation, leading to the creation of the abortion pill within a decade. Despite encountering substantial opposition throughout his career, he tirelessly advocated for the drug's acceptance worldwide, ultimately gaining recognition from the World Health Organization in 2010.
Receiving the Grand Cross of the Legion d'Honneur in 2023, Macron honored Baulieu for his resilience against adversity in the name of freedom and science. Most recently, he voiced concerns about growing restrictions on abortion access, emphasizing the need for women’s liberation.
Beyond his work in reproductive rights, Baulieu was actively engaged in researching treatments for Alzheimer's disease and severe depression, demonstrating his commitment to enhancing the quality of life for all.
French President Emmanuel Macron praised him as "a beacon of courage" and a pivotal figure who advanced women's freedom. He noted that very few individuals have influenced the world to such an extent. Gender equality minister Aurore Bergé remarked that his work was fundamentally rooted in promoting human dignity.
Born Étienne Blum on December 12, 1926, in Strasbourg, Dr. Baulieu adopted his new name during his teenage years while fighting against Nazi occupation. After completing his education, he ventured to the U.S. to collaborate with Dr. Gregory Pincus, a key figure in contraceptive research, which shaped his future work on sex hormones.
Baulieu developed a revolutionary method to inhibit progesterone, necessary for embryo implantation, leading to the creation of the abortion pill within a decade. Despite encountering substantial opposition throughout his career, he tirelessly advocated for the drug's acceptance worldwide, ultimately gaining recognition from the World Health Organization in 2010.
Receiving the Grand Cross of the Legion d'Honneur in 2023, Macron honored Baulieu for his resilience against adversity in the name of freedom and science. Most recently, he voiced concerns about growing restrictions on abortion access, emphasizing the need for women’s liberation.
Beyond his work in reproductive rights, Baulieu was actively engaged in researching treatments for Alzheimer's disease and severe depression, demonstrating his commitment to enhancing the quality of life for all.
