Thousands demand abortion law reform in Chile
Abortion is legal only for cases of rape or reasons of health, but that covers just 3% of abortion requests, making it a public health issue
Santiago — Thousands of people took part in a march in the Chilean capital on Wednesday demanding reform of laws that allow abortion only in cases of rape or reasons of health. Protesters held up banners and placards and chanted to the beat of a drum as they marched in Santiago, with many wearing the green scarves adopted by pro-abortion campaigners in neighbouring Argentina. Demonstrators are demanding not just that abortion be entirely legalised but also that it be free. "Abortion is a basic human right. This march is necessary to achieve what we’ve always wanted," Isidora, a 19-year-old student, told AFP. "It gives us greater strength on the road to freedom." Campaigners have been galvanised across Latin America after Argentine lawmakers approved a bill to decriminalise abortion. The Argentine senate began debating the issue earlier this month with a final decision due to be made in August, after the lower house of Congress narrowly passed the bill last month. However, the bill h...
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Subscribe now to unlock this article.
Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).
There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.
Cancel anytime.
Questions? Email helpdesk@businesslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00. Got a subscription voucher? Redeem it now.