Abortion in Suriname

Suriname
Flag Coat of arms
Capital	Paramaribo
Official languages	Dutch
Area
• Total	163,821 km2 (63,252 sq mi)
Population
• Estimate	586,634

Abortion in Suriname is a complex and sensitive issue that intersects with cultural, religious, and legal dimensions. In Suriname, abortion is generally illegal except under specific circumstances, and the topic remains a subject of ongoing debate and discussion within the country.

Legal Status

In Suriname, abortion is primarily governed by the Penal Code, which criminalizes the procedure except when it is necessary to save the life of the pregnant woman. The law does not provide exceptions for cases of rape, incest, or fetal impairment, making it one of the more restrictive abortion laws in the region.

Penal Code

The Penal Code of Suriname, which dates back to the colonial era, includes provisions that penalize both the person performing the abortion and the woman undergoing the procedure. The penalties can include imprisonment and fines, although enforcement of these laws can vary.

Exceptions

The only legal exception to the prohibition on abortion is when the procedure is necessary to save the life of the woman. In such cases, medical professionals must carefully document the necessity of the procedure to avoid legal repercussions.

Cultural and Religious Influences

Suriname is a culturally diverse country with a population that includes Hindus, Christians, Muslims, and indigenous peoples. These groups often have differing views on abortion, influenced by religious teachings and cultural norms.

Religious Perspectives

- **Christianity**: Many Christian denominations in Suriname oppose abortion, viewing it as contrary to religious teachings about the sanctity of life. - **Hinduism**: Hindu views on abortion can vary, but traditional teachings generally discourage the practice. - **Islam**: Islamic teachings typically prohibit abortion, except in cases where the mother's life is at risk.

Public Health and Access

Access to safe and legal abortion services in Suriname is limited due to the restrictive legal framework. This has implications for public health, as women may seek unsafe, illegal abortions, which can lead to complications and increased maternal mortality.

Maternal Health

The lack of access to safe abortion services can contribute to higher rates of maternal morbidity and mortality. Public health initiatives often focus on improving access to contraception and family planning services to reduce the incidence of unintended pregnancies.

Advocacy and Reform

There are ongoing efforts by various advocacy groups to reform abortion laws in Suriname. These groups argue for the expansion of legal exceptions and improved access to reproductive health services.

International Influence

International human rights organizations have also called on Suriname to review its abortion laws to align with global standards on women's rights and health.

Also see

• Reproductive rights in Suriname
• Healthcare in Suriname
• Women's rights in Suriname
• Penal Code of Suriname