Paris: In a historic move French lawmakers voted overwhelmingly to enshrine abortion rights in the country’s constitution, making France the first nation to explicitly guarantee a woman’s right to voluntarily terminate a pregnancy.
Proposed by President Emmanuel Macron, the bill aims to safeguard abortion rights in the face of recent rollbacks witnessed in other countries, notably the United States. The momentous decision, made during a special joint session of parliament, elicited a prolonged ovation from lawmakers.
The amendment, which grants women the “guaranteed freedom” to end pregnancies, marks a global first in legislative protection of reproductive rights. The revision of France’s 1958 constitution garnered an astonishing 780-72 votes, and met with a standing ovation in the parliament at Versailles upon announcement.
President Macron hailed the move as a source of “French pride,” emphasizing its delivery of a “universal message.” Nevertheless, opposition from anti-abortion groups, as well as the Vatican’s criticism, underscores the contentious nature of the change.
Abortion has been legal in France since 1975, with public support for constitutional amendments to safeguard this right reaching approximately 85%. France’s initiative stands out globally as the first to explicitly state the guarantee of abortion within its constitutional framework.
The amendment, marking the 25th alteration to modern France’s founding document and the first since 2008, was celebrated nationwide. The Eiffel Tower in Paris was illuminated in acknowledgment, bearing the message: “My Body My Choice.”
Before the vote, Prime Minister Gabriel Attal stressed the precariousness of abortion rights, stating that women’s autonomy over their bodies remained “in danger” and subject to arbitrary decision-making. He affirmed the amendment as a message affirming women’s ownership of their bodies.
While resistance from right-wing factions in parliament was notably absent, some critics accuse President Macron of exploiting the constitution for political gains. However, proponents argue that the revision serves to fortify existing rights, particularly in light of recent developments in the United States, where abortion rights have been curtailed.
Despite opposition from religious institutions such as the Vatican, many activists and advocates welcome France’s constitutional amendment as a crucial step in safeguarding reproductive freedom. Laura Slimani, from the Fondation des Femmes rights group, expressed emotion and solidarity, highlighting the global significance of the decision.
The Vatican reiterated its stance against abortion, asserting that there can be no “right” to take a human life. French Catholic bishops echoed these concerns, emphasizing the need to prioritize the protection of life in the current phase of history.
France Becomes First Country to Approve Constitutional Amendment Guaranteeing Abortion Rights
The amendment received widespread support, with an astonishing 780-72 vote in favor during a special joint session of parliament. This reflects strong public sentiment, with around 85% of the population in favor of protecting the right to abortion.
