Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk has publicly stated that he lacks the necessary parliamentary backing to amend the country's abortion law, which is known to be one of the most restrictive in Europe. Tusk, a centrist leader, assumed office in December as the head of a coalition government that includes members with differing views on the issue of abortion.
During a recent event, Tusk admitted that there is currently no majority in parliament to legalize abortion up to the 12th week of pregnancy, a promise he made during his campaign. The existing law in Poland permits abortion only in cases of rape, incest, or when the woman's life or health is in danger.
Efforts to change the law have faced significant opposition from conservative lawmakers and the influential Roman Catholic Church, which holds a strong position in the predominantly Catholic country. Despite this, Poland is experiencing a trend of increasing secularization alongside economic growth.
While the law allows for certain exceptions, many women still struggle to access abortion services due to various barriers. Some hospitals prioritize the fetus over the mother's health, leading to tragic outcomes in emergency situations. Additionally, some doctors refuse to perform abortions based on personal beliefs.
Women who qualify for legal abortions often face challenges in obtaining the necessary permissions due to bureaucratic hurdles and social stigma. As a result, many resort to alternative methods such as obtaining abortion pills from abroad or traveling to other countries where abortion laws are less restrictive.
Tusk emphasized that his government is focused on improving the safety and accessibility of abortion services within the existing legal framework. Efforts are underway to reduce the suffering of women in need of abortions and to protect individuals who assist them from legal repercussions.
The issue of abortion remains a deeply divisive and contentious topic in Polish society, reflecting broader social and political tensions. Despite the current limitations, activists continue to advocate for greater reproductive rights and access to safe abortion services.
