Denmark is set to enact a significant shift in its abortion legislation, marking the first adjustment in half a century. Under the new regulations, women will be permitted to undergo abortions up to the 18th week of pregnancy, extending the previous limit of the 12th week, as reported by AP.
Additionally, the law will grant autonomy to girls aged 15 to 17 to seek abortion services without requiring parental consent.
Marie Bjerre, the Minister for Gender Equality, emphasized Denmark’s commitment to advancing women’s rights, contrasting the move with global trends of regression in this sphere. She underscored the importance of individual freedom and the right to self-determination over one’s body and life, hailing the occasion as a landmark for gender equality.
The introduction of free abortion in Denmark dates back to 1973, with the 12-week limit initially established due to the higher risks associated with surgical procedures beyond this timeframe, as stated by the Ministry of Health.
Health Minister Sophie Løhde highlighted the necessity for the abortion laws to adapt to contemporary realities after five decades. She pointed to Sweden, where a similar legal limit of 18 weeks was implemented in 1996, noting that such changes did not lead to a significant surge in abortion rates or alterations in the timing of procedures.
