Poland's parliament is currently engaged in a significant debate regarding the liberalization of the country's strict abortion law. The nation, known for its strong Catholic influence, has one of the most stringent abortion laws in Europe. Despite the existing regulations, many women in Poland resort to terminating pregnancies at home using pills obtained from overseas.
The lower house of parliament is set to review four distinct proposals on the matter. The current abortion law, established in 1993 and heavily influenced by the Catholic church, was further restricted following a 2020 constitutional court ruling that prohibited abortion in cases of fetal abnormalities.
Prime Minister Donald Tusk, who assumed office in December, has pledged to legalize abortion up to the 12th week of pregnancy, emphasizing that the decision should be left to the woman, not external authorities.
While public support for a more liberal abortion law is evident, conservative factions within the government hold key positions that could impede any potential changes. President Andrzej Duda, with veto power over legislation, has previously blocked a law allowing over-the-counter access to the morning-after pill for young girls and women. Additionally, the speaker of parliament, Szymon Holownia, has been criticized for delaying the discussion on abortion rights.
Activists and advocacy groups have been vocal in their calls for reform, citing the need to address the challenges faced by women seeking abortions in Poland. The current law permits abortions only in cases where the woman's health or life is at risk, or if the pregnancy results from a crime. However, in practice, many doctors refuse to perform abortions even when legally permissible.
Various organizations, such as the Abortion Dream Team and Women Help Women, have been assisting Polish women in accessing abortion pills from abroad. These groups adhere to World Health Organization guidelines on abortion care, emphasizing the safe use of pills as a method of abortion.
The ongoing debate in parliament includes proposals ranging from decriminalizing assistance in abortion procedures to legalizing abortion up to the 12th week of pregnancy. The outcome of the vote on these proposals remains uncertain, with conservative elements advocating for maintaining the current restrictions on abortion in Poland.
