The right to abortion lies at the heart of debates surrounding women’s rights. However, across Europe, many countries continue to impose strict limitations on access to voluntary termination of pregnancy (abortion), creating dramatic situations for women seeking control over their own bodies. Meanwhile, countries like Tunisia offer legal and accessible solutions. This article explores the restrictions on abortion in Europe, particularly in countries like Malta, Poland, Cyprus, Monaco, Andorra, and Italy, while highlighting Tunisia’s liberal system, where abortion is allowed even after three months of pregnancy under certain conditions.
Severe Restrictions in Several European Countries
Despite efforts toward liberalization in some places, many European nations still impose restrictive abortion laws, significantly limiting women’s rights to make decisions about their own bodies. Below are examples of countries where abortion is strictly regulated or even banned:
- Malta: One of the most restrictive countries in the European Union. Until 2023, abortion was entirely banned, even when the mother’s life was at risk. A slight relaxation was introduced in 2023, permitting abortion in cases of grave danger to the mother’s life or if the fetus is non-viable. However, the procedure remains extremely rare and socially stigmatized.
- Poland: Once a pioneer in abortion liberalization, Poland has dramatically regressed. In 2021, under pressure from conservative movements, a law was passed limiting abortion to cases where the woman’s life is in danger or if the pregnancy results from rape or incest. This has led to an increase in clandestine abortions, endangering Polish women’s health.
- Italy: Although abortion has been legal in Italy since 1978, access to the procedure has become increasingly difficult. Around two-thirds of Italian gynecologists identify as “conscientious objectors,” refusing to perform abortions. This has contributed to a rise in illegal abortions. In 2024, a controversial amendment allowed anti-abortion groups to access abortion centers, further complicating access.
- Cyprus: Abortion was only legalized in 2018, but under strict conditions, such as in cases of rape, fetal malformation, or danger to the woman’s life. Cultural taboos surrounding abortion make access to care even more difficult, forcing some women to travel abroad for services.
- Andorra and Monaco: In these two micro-states, abortion is almost entirely banned. In Andorra, it is illegal in all circumstances, including rape or danger to the woman’s life. Monaco slightly eased its laws in 2019, but abortion remains illegal in most cases.
Tunisia: A Model of Reproductive Rights
In contrast to these European countries with restrictive legislation, Tunisia stands out with its progressive reproductive rights laws. Since 1973, abortion has been legal within the first three months of pregnancy without any conditions. Beyond this period, Tunisian law also permits abortion if continuing the pregnancy poses a risk to the woman’s physical or mental health or if the fetus has a severe malformation.
Abortion and Curettage in Tunisia
In Tunisia, voluntary termination of pregnancy (abortion) is safely performed in licensed hospitals and clinics. The most common method is aspiration curettage, a quick and safe procedure typically lasting 30 to 45 minutes under local or general anesthesia. The procedure leaves no lasting damage to the uterine lining, and post-operative complications are extremely rare. Patients can usually go home two hours after the procedure.
Medication Abortion
Medication abortion is another common option in Tunisia. It is recommended up to 8 weeks of pregnancy and involves administering pills that induce the expulsion of the fetus. This method is widely available in public facilities and helps reduce the risks associated with surgical procedures.
Medical Protocol in Tunisia
The protocol for abortion in Tunisia begins with an initial consultation to confirm the pregnancy and its gestation period. If medication abortion is chosen, the pills can be administered the same day. If aspiration abortion is required, a procedure is scheduled following a standard pre-operative assessment. A follow-up consultation is routinely arranged one week after the procedure to confirm uterine clearance and ensure no complications have arisen.
Conclusion
In a context where access to abortion remains a struggle for many women in Europe, Tunisia offers an accessible and safe solution. For those living in countries like Malta, Poland, or Italy, where abortion is either severely restricted or hindered by cultural and legal obstacles, Tunisia stands out as a key destination for women seeking to exercise their right to a safe and legal abortion.
Disclaimer : Les informations sur ce site ne sont pas destinées à remplacer un avis médical professionnel, un diagnostic ou un traitement. Tout le contenu, y compris le texte, les images et les informations, contenu sur ou disponible via ce site web, est fourni à des fins d’information générale seulement.
