Paris: In a landmark decision, the French government has taken a decisive step to enshrine abortion as a constitutional right for women. This historic move was solidified during a joint session of Parliament on Monday, where a bill to this effect received overwhelming support, with 780 votes in favor and a mere 72 against.
Legislative Journey to Constitutional Amendment
The journey to this momentous amendment began with both chambers of the French Parliament—the National Assembly and the Senate—giving their nod to a bill that proposed altering Article 34 of the French Constitution. This change was aimed at safeguarding women’s right to abortion, positioning France as the pioneer in declaring abortion a constitutional right.
Public Reaction and Political Commentary
The decision has been met with widespread jubilation, with many lauding the government’s progressive stance. A CNN report highlighted that the conclusive vote took place at the Versailles Palace, marking the culmination of the legislative process. Earlier in the year, both the Senate and National Assembly had passed the amendment with an impressive majority.
The amendment explicitly articulates the “guaranteed freedom” of abortion within France, a statement that has been hailed as historic by numerous Members of Parliament. Before the vote, French Prime Minister Gabriel Atal acknowledged the “moral debt” owed to women who suffered due to illegal abortions in the past, emphasizing the government’s commitment to women’s autonomy over their bodies.
Celebration and Historical Context
In recognition of this legislative milestone, French President Emmanuel Macron announced a formal ceremony to commemorate the amendment’s passage on International Women’s Rights Day. It’s noteworthy that France first legalized abortion in 1975. The recent legislative success is a testament to the persistent efforts of the French left to secure abortion rights constitutionally.
This amendment marks the 25th constitutional modification since the inception of the Fifth Republic in 1958. Despite the broad support, the Catholic Church, through the Pontifical Academy for Life, expressed dissent, citing the universal human rights framework to argue against the notion of a ‘right’ to terminate human life.
The constitutionalization of abortion rights in France is a significant stride in the global discourse on women’s rights and reproductive freedoms. It reflects a societal and political acknowledgment of women’s rights over their bodies and sets a precedent for other nations to consider similar legislative reforms.
