General
Minister confirms hospitals will perform more late-term abortions
Health Minister Sophie Hermans (VVD) confirmed that several Dutch hospitals will conduct exploratory procedures for late-term abortions between 22 and 24 weeks of pregnancy, starting next year. This initiative aims to improve access to care for women requiring such interventions, which are currently often performed abroad. Hermans clarified that each hospital will handle approximately four cases as part of a 'scouting' phase rather than a pilot, emphasizing that participation is voluntary for both institutions and staff. While the NVOG gynecologists' association supports the move, parties like the SGP and PVV criticized the expansion, arguing it undermines existing regulations despite the minister stating no new laws or guidelines are being introduced.
Ozetta summarises; the reporting is the newsroom's