Abortion. A contentious topic in today’s political climate has slowly been making headway in crucial countries. In a new wave of feminism and awareness, protestors in Argentina and South Korea have been canvassing for legalized abortions, and they have succeeded.
Argentina:
In a traditionally conservative Roman Catholic society, Argentina seemed like an unlikely candidate. However, in late December, Argentina became the biggest country in Latin America to legalize abortion. In a 38-29 vote, a law was passed legalizing all abortions up to the first 14 weeks. It should also be noted that those with extenuating health circumstances or victims of rape are allowed to receive the operation, free of charge, at any time in their pregnancy due to health complications. This tremendous feat seems to be setting a precedent for the future of the country. The people are now fighting for complete equality, gender rights, and LGBTQ+ rights among others. The decision was met with triumphant cheers of activists who now use green bandanas to show their support. Though there are some that protest the decision, mainly due to religious reasons, the overarching message is that countries are beginning to open up to modern legislation and further the cause of equality.
South Korea:
In 1953 South Korea passed the Mother and Child Health Act as well as the Criminal Act, which made it illegal to perform or receive an abortion. Despite this, there has been a growing movement to acknowledge the need for the procedure much like there is in Argentina. In 2019, the court ruled that criminalizing all abortions was in direct violation of the South Korea constitution, spotlighting the issue. The country currently lacks sufficient contraception and sex education necessary to influence safe behavior. As a result, in 2005, 3% of women had an abortion putting South Korea at the top in terms of abortion procedures. In 2020, the court finally approved legal abortions up to 14 weeks. They also overturned prior law to allow abortion up to 24 weeks if the baby has health complications, or the mother is an abuse victim. Though the fight in South Korea isn’t over, as there are still hefty criminal charges past the allotted time period, the ruling marks positive efforts towards change.
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