Experts recommend legalizing first 12 weeks of pregnancy for abortion in Germany

Following a year-long investigation into the issue of abortion in Germany, an independent experts commission has made a groundbreaking recommendation to overhaul the country's abortion laws.

Current Abortion Laws

Under the current legislation, abortion in Germany is considered illegal under the country's penal code. However, it is not punishable if a woman undergoes mandatory counseling and a three-day waiting period before the procedure is carried out. This has led to significant debate and criticism over the years due to its restrictive nature.

Recommendation for Legalization

The experts commission has proposed that abortion should no longer fall under the penal code and be made legal during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. The recommendation aims to provide women with more autonomy and remove the stigma surrounding early-stage abortions.

Comparison with Other European Countries

Germany's approach to abortion has been noted as more restrictive compared to many other European countries. The recommendation for legalization comes at a time when neighboring countries like the Netherlands have more liberal laws, leading some German women to seek abortions abroad.

Commission's Response

Members of the commission emphasized that the recommendation is not just a formality but has the potential to significantly impact the well-being of women facing the decision of whether to seek an abortion. They highlighted the importance of removing the stigma associated with early-stage abortions.

Challenges and Opposition

The commission also addressed the decreasing number of physicians willing to perform abortions in Germany, as well as the difficulty for women to find accessible abortion services in their regions. Additionally, the Catholic Church, a prominent opponent of liberalizing abortion laws, swiftly condemned the commission's recommendations, citing concerns about the protection of life.

Government Response

German Health Minister Karl Lauterbach acknowledged the scientific expertise provided by the report and emphasized the need for an objective and informed discussion without allowing the issue to create further societal division. The government intends to thoroughly examine the report and share it with parliament.

Next Steps

The commission's non-binding recommendation is expected to reignite discussions on abortion legislation in Germany and may ultimately lead to parliamentary reforms. The government will need to carefully consider the implications and potential societal impact of any changes to the existing laws.