In Sharp Contrast to U.S., British Parliament Moves to End Criminal Penalties for Women Seeking Abortion

On Tuesday, British lawmakers cast a decisive vote to decriminalize abortion for pregnant women in England and Wales, signifying a significant change in the nation’s stance on reproductive rights and setting the UK apart from the growing restrictions seen in the United States.

The vote aims to abolish sections of a law from the Victorian era that permits the prosecution of women for ending their pregnancies. Abortion remains legal in England and Wales up to 24 weeks, with specific exceptions permitted beyond that timeframe, particularly in situations where the mother's life is at risk. However, women who operate outside these legal boundaries may encounter criminal investigations, arrests, and the potential for imprisonment.

The proposed change, which was approved as an amendment to a draft policing and crime bill, aims to eliminate the legal risks encountered by women who terminate pregnancies past the legal limit. Medical professionals who conduct abortions beyond the allowed timeframe would remain liable for legal consequences.

Before becoming law, the bill must navigate through both the House of Commons and the House of Lords.

The decision enjoys broad backing from the British public. A recent YouGov poll conducted in April revealed that 88% of respondents are in favor of a woman’s right to access abortion services.

The decision arrives during a period when access to abortion is facing significant restrictions in the United States. Following the U.S. Supreme Court's decision to overturn Roe v. Wade in 2022, numerous states across America have enacted strict restrictions or nearly complete bans, significantly altering the realm of reproductive health.

Louise McCudden, the UK head of external affairs at MSI Reproductive Choices, connected the UK vote to increasing concerns about anti-abortion activism influenced by the U.S. She noted that anti-choice protests outside clinics in the UK have risen, fueled by the reduction of rights across the Atlantic.

Nonetheless, the vote faced criticism from the Society for the Protection of Unborn Children, whose public policy manager cautioned that it might allow for abortion “even moments before birth.”

Nevertheless, advocates argue that the reform emphasizes compassion and autonomy, particularly for vulnerable women confronting crisis pregnancies.

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