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The Fight for Reproductive Rights: Abortion in Monaco
Decriminalization of abortion: Progress or limit?
Until today abortion is prohibited in the Principality of Monaco except in cases of rape or serious illness of the fetus. Women are liable to a prison sentence of 6 months to 3 years and a fine of 9,000 to 18,000 euros.
At the end of July 2019, it was decided, according to a press release from the Monegasque government, to consider passing a law decriminalizing abortion in the coming months.
This decriminalization is good news for all pregnant women who have chosen to have an abortion , but it is only a step because abortion will not be legalized in this territory. As a result, Monegasque doctors will still not be authorized to practice it, their patients will therefore have to go abroad to have an abortion. The main reason invoked to justify this position of the Monegasque government is the very important place occupied by the Catholic religion, the state religion in this country. This prevents…
Challenges and restrictions faced by Monegasque women: –
The struggle for reproductive rights faced by Monegasque women seeking abortion is characterized by a number of challenges and restrictions.
Currently, restrictive laws in Monaco make it extremely difficult for women to access safe and legal abortion services in the country. The limited exceptions for rape or serious fetal disease further restrict women’s reproductive choices, leaving many people in need of abortion without legal options.
Moreover, the decision to decriminalize abortion, while a step forward, is not full legalization. Monegasque doctors are still prohibited from performing abortions, forcing women to travel abroad for the procedure. This creates logistical, financial, and emotional burdens for those seeking an abortion, as they must navigate foreign healthcare systems and incur additional expense.
The influence of the Catholic religion, the state religion of Monaco, is a significant factor in the government’s position on abortion. The Catholic Church’s opposition to abortion strongly influences the country’s policies, contributing to limited progress in reproductive rights.
These challenges and restrictions underscore the urgency of a comprehensive reform of Monaco’s approach to reproductive rights. Advocacy efforts and public discourse around the issue are crucial to press for a more inclusive and rights-based approach that respects women’s autonomy and guarantees access to safe and effective abortion services . legal.
