Abortion-rights movement

Movement advocating for legal access to abortion services

Pro-choice feminists in São Paulo

The abortion-rights movement is a sociopolitical movement that advocates for the legal right of women to choose to have an abortion. This movement is part of the broader reproductive rights movement, which seeks to ensure access to safe and legal reproductive health services, including contraception and abortion.

History

The abortion-rights movement has its roots in the early 20th century, with significant developments occurring throughout the century. In the early 1900s, activists like Stella Browne began advocating for women's reproductive rights, including the right to abortion.

Stella Browne, an early advocate for abortion rights

Early Advocacy

In the early 20th century, abortion was largely illegal in many countries, and women often resorted to unsafe methods to terminate pregnancies. Activists like Stella Browne in the United Kingdom and Margaret Sanger in the United States began to speak out against these restrictions, arguing for women's autonomy over their own bodies.

Mid-20th Century Developments

The mid-20th century saw significant legal and social changes regarding abortion. In 1938, the Aleck Bourne trial in the UK was a landmark case where a doctor was acquitted for performing an abortion on a young rape victim, setting a precedent for the "necessity" defense in abortion cases.

The Aleck Bourne trial was a landmark case in the UK

Roe v. Wade

In the United States, the Roe v. Wade decision in 1973 was a pivotal moment for the abortion-rights movement. The United States Supreme Court ruled that the Constitution of the United States protects a pregnant woman's liberty to choose to have an abortion without excessive government restriction.

The United States Supreme Court in 1973

Current Issues

The abortion-rights movement continues to face challenges and opposition. In many countries, access to abortion is still restricted by law, and activists work to ensure that abortion remains safe, legal, and accessible.

A sign advocating for safe, legal, and accessible abortion

Global Perspective

Abortion laws vary widely around the world. In some countries, abortion is available on request, while in others, it is heavily restricted or banned altogether. The movement works internationally to promote reproductive rights and access to abortion services.

Abortion legislation in EU countries

Related pages

• Reproductive rights
• Pro-choice
• Pro-life
• Roe v. Wade
• Stella Browne