LAST Thursday, Poland announced that almost all abortions will be banned – except for cases of rape or incest.
Local Southampton residents gathered at Guildhall Square to protest against the new abortion law in Poland.
The protesters made banners and placards reading: “My body my choice,” “I wish I could abort my government,” and “I fight for freedom.”
Leader of Women Strike in Poland (Strajk Kobiet), Marta Lempart called for a mass protest and said in a press conference that she wants to decriminalise abortion and dismiss the conservative government.
Demonstrations have been taking place across Poland and many other European countries. Credit: Mateusz Jaroński
The decision was backed by the right- wing government, Polish Episcopate and anti- abortion groups.
Poland is a Catholic country and has one of the strictest laws on abortion, it is only legal in cases of rapes and incest or when the woman’s life or health is at risk.
Many women have come forward and are saying that the country’s top court’s decision is against their human rights.
Currently, Poland has delayed abortion ban as nationwide protest continues. Credit: Mateusz Jaroński
Some activists have targeted churches and religious monuments which they desecrated using paint spray or offensive banners.
Conservative leader, Jaroslaw Kaczynski, has condemned the protests and has called for the defence of traditional values.
They said that those who are demonstrating are committing a serious crime as they put everyone at risk during a world pandemic.
In an effort to ease tensions, right- wing President Andrzej Duda proposed a legislation reintroducing the possibility of terminating a pregnancy in case of congenitally damaged foetuses except Down syndrome.
Many celebrities like Dua Lipa, Anne-Marie, Miley Cyrus used their social media platform to share solidarity with other Polish activist.
by Shivalika Puri (@shivalikapuri)
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