“French Lawmakers Pave Way for Historic Change: Abortion Now Constitutionally Protected Right”
In a historic move, France has solidified the right to abortion into its constitution, marking a global first and garnering both celebration and criticism. With an overwhelming vote of 780 to 72, Members of Parliament and senators united in Versailles Palace to endorse this pivotal decision, underscoring France’s commitment to women’s rights.
As the announcement echoed through the halls of power, activists in central Paris erupted in joy, their cheers reverberating against the backdrop of the illuminated Eiffel Tower, which boldly proclaimed “MyBodyMyChoice.” Unlike the contentious debates often seen elsewhere, abortion enjoys widespread acceptance in France, with approximately 80% of the population supporting its legality.
Prime Minister Gabriel Attal encapsulated the sentiment, emphasizing that every woman possesses the autonomy to make decisions about her own body. While abortion has been legally accessible since a 1974 law, recent global shifts, particularly the U.S.
Supreme Court’s reversal of Roe v. Wade, spurred French activists to fortify this right within their constitutional framework.
Laura Slimani of the Fondation des Femmes underscored the urgency, recognizing that even in France, the right to abortion is not immune to regression, especially in the face of international developments.
Author:- Apoorva Arora