Turkey (Washington Insider Magazine) – Are abortions legal in Turkey? is met with a resounding “yes.” Since May 27, 1983, the Turkish law has granted women the right to request an abortion. This significant decision has considerably impacted reproductive rights in the country.
Under the current legislation, abortion is permissible within the first ten weeks of pregnancy. However, there are circumstances where this time frame can be extended, primarily if there is a threat to the woman’s life or the life of the fetus. During this critical period, abortions are legally allowed for several reasons. These include situations where the woman’s mental and/or physical health is at risk, the fetus would suffer from physical or mental impairments, the conception occurred through rape or incest, or when economic and social factors come into play. In all cases, the woman’s consent is vital.
It’s worth noting that additional requirements are depending on the woman’s circumstances. If she is under the age of 18, parental consent is necessary. Furthermore, if she is married, her husband’s consent is also required. However, single women over the age of 18 have the autonomy to make their own decisions regarding abortion without the need for additional consent.
Since the legalization of abortion, Turkey has seen a positive shift in understanding and education surrounding this sensitive topic. This progress has led to safer procedures and improved healthcare services for women seeking abortions. Before legalization, many pregnant women faced the unfortunate reality of resorting to unsafe methods due to limited access to legal and professional services, resulting in high mortality rates. Thankfully, with the availability of legal abortion services, women can now undergo the procedure in a safe and regulated environment.
The journey towards reproductive rights and safe abortions in Turkey has been marked by significant milestones, with the 1983 legalization playing a crucial role in transforming women’s healthcare and empowering them to make choices about their bodies and lives.
Are Abortions Legal In Turkey?
Turkey legalized abortions in 1983 after a previous ban, but the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP), led by President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, has expressed strong opposition, labeling it as “murder.”
According to Erkmen, an expert in women’s rights, women can legally request an abortion during the first 10 weeks of pregnancy. However, there are practical challenges that women face. Due to the government’s stance considering abortion as murder, some doctors refuse to perform the procedure, even though it is against the law. These doctors believe the government will protect them if women complain about their refusal.
Moreover, bringing the issue to court is not an easy task for women. Additionally, public hospitals often refer women to private hospitals for abortions, creating an additional barrier.
So, the legality of abortions in Turkey is determined by the law passed in 1983.
However, the government’s stance and societal pressures create obstacles for women seeking abortions. While abortion is legally permitted within the first 10 weeks of pregnancy, some doctors refuse to perform the procedure due to the government’s position. Women also face challenges when trying to seek legal recourse or accessing abortion services in public hospitals. These factors make it difficult for women in Turkey to exercise their reproductive rights freely.
Final Words: Are Abortions Legal In Turkey
Turkey allows for the legal termination of pregnancies under certain circumstances. The Turkish Penal Code permits abortion within the first 10 weeks of pregnancy with the woman’s consent. However, beyond the 10-week mark, abortions are only allowed if there is a risk to the mother’s life or health or in cases of fetal abnormality. A medical report confirming these conditions is typically required. Access to abortion services may vary across regions in Turkey, and counseling services are often provided before any procedure takes place.