Belgium (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Leading European NGOs met in Berlin on May 22, 2024 (Wednesday) calling to “put reproductive rights on the ballot paper” in the forthcoming European Parliament elections.
On the heels of the recent government commissioned report calling for abortions to be legalised within the first 12 weeks of pregnancy in Germany, activists from across Europe gathered in Berlin calling citizens to sign up to the “My voice, my choice for safe and accessible abortion” initiative which aims to secure over 1 million signatures over the next three weeks.
What Is the “My Voice, My Choice” Initiative?
The “My Voice, My Choice for Safe and Accessible Abortion” initiative aims to gather over 1 million signatures within three weeks. Launched in Berlin, this initiative seeks to secure safe and accessible abortion across the European Union. Utilizing the European Citizens’ Initiative, this movement allows European citizens to propose legislation directly. Once the target number of signatures is collected, the European Commission evaluates the proposal. If approved, the Commission may then propose legislation to support safe and accessible abortion across the EU, consulting with various EU institutions.
What Are the Current Legal and Social Challenges in Germany?
In Germany, abortion remains illegal except under specific circumstances, such as mandatory counseling, health risks to the woman, or pregnancies resulting from rape. Paragraph 218 of Germany’s criminal code outlaws abortion, with penalties of up to three years in prison. Terminating a pregnancy after twelve weeks is also illegal. Despite the legal restrictions, abortion is rarely punished. However, pro-choice advocates fear that abortion rights are under threat, particularly with the rising popularity of the AfD, a party that supports tightening existing laws. Activists are concerned that Germany may see a regression in reproductive rights similar to what Italy experienced under Georgia Meloni’s populist government.
Who Are the Key Voices and Their Messages?
Prominent activists and leaders have voiced their support for the initiative:
- Luisa Neubauer (Fridays for Future Germany): Emphasized the importance of women’s safety and freedom and called for the abolition of Paragraph 218.
- Nika Kovac (Director Institute 8 March and Coordinator of the My Voice, My Choice Campaign): Highlighted the inspiration drawn from European women uniting for their rights and emphasized the opportunity presented by the upcoming European elections to drive positive change.
- Kristina Lunz (Author and Co-Executive Director of the Centre for Feminist Foreign Policy): Advocated for the right to personal autonomy and access to safe and legal abortions.
- Annika Kreitlow (Doctor and Spokesperson for the Alliance for Sexual Self-Determination): Stressed that abortions are a fundamental part of healthcare that should be accessible and safe across Europe.
What Are the Broader Implications and Goals?
The initiative seeks to bring attention to the urgent need for legal and accessible abortion services in Germany and across Europe. The campaigners call for political action to implement the Commission’s recommendations and highlight the broader impact of ensuring reproductive rights. They advocate for eliminating restrictive laws, fast-tracking necessary legislation, and promoting a Europe built on solidarity, equality, and compassion. By securing over 1 million signatures, the initiative hopes to prompt the European Commission to propose legislation that would provide financial support for safe and accessible abortion services across the EU, ensuring that reproductive rights are protected and accessible to all women.
