General
Opposition Party Pro Wants to Remove Abortion from the Criminal Code
Progressief Nederland (Pro) MP Lisa Vliegenthart submitted a bill today to remove abortion from the Dutch Criminal Code, arguing that it is healthcare and should be regulated by care laws rather than penal statutes. The current law criminalizes abortion except under specific conditions, such as gestational limits and proof of distress. Vliegenthart aims to balance women's choice with fetal protection while maintaining existing safety standards. If successful, Pro intends to enshrine abortion rights in the Constitution, citing concerns over restrictions in the US and Europe. The proposal has support from D66 and smaller opposition parties, and aligns with the VVD's 2025 election program, though the VVD has not yet committed to supporting the measure due to coalition agreements requiring careful debate on medical-ethical issues.
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