France Is the First Country Ever to Make Abortion a Constitutional Right

Abortion has long been a contentious issue around the world, with debates over women’s right to choose and the sanctity of life. Despite the progress made in recent years towards greater gender equality, access to safe and legal abortion remains a challenge in many countries. But, in a groundbreaking move, France has become the first country to enshrine abortion rights into law. This historic decision marks a significant milestone in the fight for reproductive rights, setting a precedent for other nations to follow.

News on France’s Abortion Rights

Prime Minister Gabriel Attal emphasized lawmakers’ “moral debt” to women who were previously subjected to illegal abortions before a recent vote. He underscored the importance of women having control over their bodies. Attal stated, “Above all, we’re sending a message to all women: your body belongs to you.” French President Emmanuel Macron announced plans for a formal ceremony to mark the passage of the amendment. This is scheduled for Friday, coinciding with International Women’s Rights Day.

In 1975, France legalized abortion following a campaign spearheaded by then-Health Minister Simone Veil. She was a prominent feminist figure and Holocaust survivor. Unlike the highly divisive nature of abortion politics in the US, where it often aligns with party lines, France generally supports abortion rights. Some lawmakers opposed the recent amendment. This was not due to disagreement on abortion but because they deemed it unnecessary given the widespread support for reproductive rights in the country.

What This Means for Women

The recent passage of the measure represents a significant triumph for the French left. It has long advocated for enshrining abortion rights in the Constitution. Previously, President Emmanuel Macron’s government, echoing the current opponents of the amendment, argued against such measures. However, the US Supreme Court’s 2022 decision on Roe v. Wade, allowing states to individually determine abortion laws, spurred France into action.

French Justice Minister Eric Dupond-Moretti highlighted the vulnerability of “fundamental rights,” citing recent events in the United States as a stark reminder. This vote marks the 25th amendment to the French constitution since the establishment of the Fifth Republic in 1958. The Catholic Church expressed opposition to the amendment, with the Pontifical Academy for Life stating that there cannot be a “right” to take human life in the era of universal human rights. A conference of French bishops reiterated the church’s stance against abortion prior to the vote.

Do you think other countries should follow France’s abortion rights?

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