Faroe Islands Legalize Abortion Up to 12 Weeks After Historic Vote
The parliament of the Faroe Islands voted on Thursday to legalize abortion until the end of the 12th week of pregnancy, marking a significant shift in the territory’s restrictive abortion laws. This reform broadens access to reproductive healthcare and affirms women’s rights in a region known for its conservative stance on such issues.
Why It Matters
This legislative change is crucial as it enhances women’s autonomy over their bodies in the Faroe Islands, aligning the territory with broader European practices regarding reproductive rights. Historically, the Faroe Islands had among the most restrictive abortion policies in Europe, which not only stigmatized the issue but also forced women to seek abortions abroad. The new law is seen as a pivotal advancement for human rights in the region.
Key Developments
- The new law allows abortions up to 12 weeks of pregnancy.
- Previous legislation only permitted abortions in cases of rape, incest, health risks, or severe fetal abnormalities.
- The parliamentary vote was narrowly passed, with a count of 17 to 16.
- The law is expected to take effect on July 1 of next year.
- Supporters highlighted the importance of guaranteeing safe healthcare and personal freedom.
- Amnesty International welcomed the change, emphasizing the rights to bodily autonomy and safe abortions.
Full Report
Parliamentary Vote and Reactions
After a vigorous debate, the Faroese parliament’s vote represents a historic moment, as the new legislation overturns laws that have been in place since 1956. MP Ingilín Didriksen Strømm, one of the bill’s proponents, stated, "This change finally affirms women’s autonomy over their own bodies in the Faroe Islands." She underscored that the new law guarantees access to safe healthcare while eliminating fear and stigma related to abortion.
Bjørt Lind, a member of the pro-choice group Fritt Val, described this legal change as "colossal," noting the historical taboo surrounding the topic in Faroese society and highlighting the significant challenge that remains in shifting public perception.
On the contrary, some parliament members expressed reservations about the new law. Erhard Joensen, an opponent of the reform, suggested that attempts may be made to reverse the legislation due to a lack of broad support among the populace.
Impacts of the Previous Legislation
Under the former laws, abortions could only be performed under specific circumstances. This included cases where the woman’s health was at risk or if the child was expected to have severe health issues. The process complicated matters for women, as they required approval from multiple medical authorities, with non-compliance risking criminal penalties for both parties.
Previously, women in the Faroe Islands often had to travel to Denmark for abortions, adding financial and emotional strain to their circumstances. Danish legislation has permitted abortions on request since 1973, extending the permissible timeframe to 18 weeks earlier this year.
Context & Previous Events
The move to liberalize abortion laws is part of an ongoing discussion in the Faroe Islands, which, despite its proximity to liberal Nordic countries, retains a more conservative stance. Previous attempts to amend these laws have failed, including a similar bill that resulted in a tied vote last May. With over 75% of the Faroe Islands’ 56,000 residents identifying as members of the Lutheran church, shifting cultural and social norms remain a substantial factor in the ongoing discourse surrounding reproductive rights in the region.
