Prior to the passing of the bill, abortions were only permitted in cases of rape or when the woman’s health was at serious risk. Two years ago, the country had almost passed the abortion bill, which was narrowly defeated. Prior to this, girls and women were forced to turn to illegal and unsafe procedures because abortion was against the law in Argentina. According to Human Rights Watch, unsafe abortion was the leading cause of maternal mortality in the country. Women’s rights activists have acknowledged that despite the new law in Argentina, the fight is far from over in the region.

Source: Indian Express December 30, 2020 23:35 UTC