French legislators made history on Monday by voting to enshrine access to abortion in the country’s Constitution, a move that makes France the first in the world to do so. The decision, which was met with overwhelming support from lawmakers, solidifies abortion as a “guaranteed freedom” overseen by Parliament’s laws.
The amendment, which passed with a vote of 780-72, ensures that future governments cannot drastically modify the current laws funding abortion for women up to 14 weeks into their pregnancies. Prime Minister Gabriel Attal emphasized the message being sent to all women, stating, “Your body belongs to you and no one has the right to control it in your stead.”
The decision to amend the Constitution was prompted by the U.S. Supreme Court’s overturning of Roe v. Wade in 2022, sparking concerns among French lawmakers. However, the move also reflects the widespread support for abortion in France and the successful campaign by a coalition of feminist activists and lawmakers from various parties.
The Conference of Bishops, representing the Catholic Church in France, opposed the amendment, but faced minimal opposition in a country where calls to protest often draw large crowds. The amendment has been hailed as a significant milestone in the fight for women’s rights, with France setting an example for the rest of the world.
The amendment not only broadens the scope of France’s Constitution but also challenges the traditional view of constitutions being written by and for men. By explicitly stating access to abortion as a fundamental right, France is leading the way in recognizing women’s autonomy and reproductive rights.
The decision to enshrine access to abortion in the Constitution marks a significant moment in French history, with lawmakers paying tribute to trailblazers like Simone Veil and Gisèle Halimi who fought for abortion rights in the past. The amendment is seen as a step towards a more inclusive and equal society, where women’s rights are upheld and protected.
Despite the progress made, French feminists acknowledge that there is still work to be done to address issues like access to abortion services and gender inequality. The amendment is seen as a catalyst for change, with hopes that it will lead to more comprehensive policies and support for women’s reproductive rights.
Overall, the decision to include access to abortion in the French Constitution is a groundbreaking step towards gender equality and reproductive justice, setting a new standard for countries around the world to follow.
