Is abortion legal in European countries?
Despite a wide variation in the restrictions under which it is permitted, abortion is legal in most European countries. 95% of European women of reproductive age live in countries which allow abortion on demand or for broad socioeconomic reasons.
How many countries in Europe have legal abortion?
National laws Performing an abortion because of economic or social reasons is accepted in 37% of countries. Performing abortion only on the basis of a woman’s request is allowed in 34% of countries, including in the United States, Canada, most European countries and China.
When was abortion made legal in Europe?
First trimester abortion was legalized in the German Democratic Republic in 1972, and in 1973 in the Federal Republic of Germany, where 79% of abortions are requested on grave social grounds.
Can you have an abortion in Spain?
Abortion in Spain is legal upon request up to 14 weeks of pregnancy, and at later stages for serious risk to the health of the woman or fetal defects.
Is abortion illegal in Germany?
Abortion is illegal under Section 218 of the German criminal code, and punishable by up to three years in prison (or up to five years for “reckless” abortions or those against the pregnant woman’s will).
Is abortion illegal in Ireland?
Abortion is permitted in Ireland during the first twelve weeks of pregnancy, and later in cases where the pregnant woman’s life or health is at risk, or in the cases of a fatal foetal abnormality. Abortion had been prohibited in Ireland by the UK Offences against the Person Act 1861.
What was the first European country to legalize abortion?
The Soviet Union
1920 – In France a law was enacted that forbade all forms of contraception, and also information about contraception. 1920 – The Soviet Union under Lenin was the first country in the world to legalize all abortions.
When was abortion illegal in Spain?
The Código Penal of 1973, is a copy and paste version of that from 1963. Because abortion was illegal in Spain, during the 1970s, Spanish women who could afford to do so went to London to get abortions. In 1974, 2,863 Spanish women had abortions in London, and in 1975, there were 4,230.
What is abortion law in France?
Abortion in France is legal on demand up to 12 weeks after conception (14 weeks after the last menstrual period).
How long is abortion legal in Germany?
Abortions on request are legal in Germany under certain conditions before the end of the 12th week of pregnancy. Who aborts a pregnancy illegally, is punished with imprisonment up to three years or with a fine.
Is abortion legal in Poland?
Abortion in Poland is legal only in cases when the pregnancy is a result of a criminal act or when the woman’s life or health is at risk. About 10-15% of Polish women seek abortion in neighbouring countries due to the strict restraints in their own country.