Sri Lanka (Washington Insider Magazine) – Sri Lanka is known for having one of the most restrictive abortion laws globally, but a recent call by Justice Minister Ali Sabry to consider legalizing abortion in cases of rape has sparked hope for change. This article emphasizes the urgent need for Sri Lanka’s government to reform the existing abortion law and ensure that all women have access to safe and legal abortions. The government can uphold women’s equal rights and protect their overall well-being by doing so. In this informative guide, we will explore the detailed answer to the query: is abortion legal in Sri Lanka?
Current Abortion Laws in Sri Lanka: Is Abortion Legal In Sri Lanka
Dating back to 1883, Sri Lankan law states that anyone intentionally causing a miscarriage, except to save a woman’s life, can face imprisonment of up to three years. If the woman is “quick with child,” a term indicating fetal movement, the sentence can increase to seven years. This law applies equally to individuals performing abortions and women attempting to induce a miscarriage.
Consequences of Restrictive Abortion Laws
Tragically, the consequences of restrictive abortion laws are severe. In December, a 13-year-old girl from Mullaithivu lost her life due to an illegal abortion after allegedly being raped by a family member. Studies conducted in 2015 revealed that unsafe abortions accounted for 10 to 13 percent of maternal deaths in Sri Lanka, ranking it the third most common cause of death during pregnancy.
However, due to the illegal nature of these procedures, comprehensive data is scarce. A frequently cited study from 1999 indicated an abortion rate of nearly 1 in 20 among women and girls aged 15 to 49. Shockingly, the Health Ministry estimated that Sri Lanka witnessed approximately 658 abortions every day in 2016.
Violation of Human Rights
The denial of safe and legal abortions for women and girls in Sri Lanka jeopardizes numerous fundamental human rights. The range of rights encompasses fundamental entitlements such as the right to preserve life, maintain good health, be safeguarded from cruel and degrading treatment, uphold physical well-being, experience non-discrimination, uphold privacy, foster equality, and exercise autonomy in determining the size and spacing of one’s family. Failing to address these rights has long-lasting implications for the well-being of women and girls in Sri Lanka.
Calls for Reform
Calls for abortion law reform have echoed for decades, with the Law Commission of Sri Lanka proposing in 2013 to legalize abortion in cases of rape. Unfortunately, successive governments have failed to enact new legislation and address this pressing issue. The time for action is now.
Urgent Reforms Required
To safeguard women’s rights and well-being, the justice minister must introduce a bill to decriminalize abortion, not only for rape survivors but for all women. Legalizing abortion will ensure women have access to safe and regulated healthcare services, minimizing the risks associated with unsafe procedures. Additionally, it will empower women to make decisions about their reproductive health, supporting their autonomy and overall quality of life.
Conclusion: Is Abortion Legal In Sri Lanka
It is high time for Sri Lanka’s government to recognize the importance of reforming its restrictive abortion laws. By legalizing abortion and ensuring access to safe and regulated healthcare services, the government can protect women’s rights, including their rights to life, health, privacy, and equality. Moreover, by allowing women to make decisions about their reproductive health, Sri Lanka will take a significant step towards empowering women and promoting their overall well-being. The government must act promptly to address this urgent issue and prioritize the rights and safety of women and girls in Sri Lanka.