MEPs support initiative on accessible abortion

Parliament recalls that many women in Europe still lack full access to safe and legal abortion and warns of the legal and practical barriers that persist in several Member States. MEPs call on these countries to reform their abortion laws and policies in line with international human rights standards.

The text, which was adopted with 358 votes in favour, 202 against and 79 abstentions, calls on the Commission, in line with the “My Voice, My Choice” initiative, to establish a voluntary mechanism open to all EU countries, with an EU contribution. This financial mechanism would allow an EU Member State to provide access to safe termination of pregnancy – in accordance with its national law – for anyone who is unable to receive such care safely and legally.

MEPs highlight the EU’s role in supporting efforts to improve sexual and reproductive health and rights and call for stronger European action to safeguard bodily autonomy and universal access to sexual and reproductive health and rights, including family planning information, affordable contraception, safe and legal abortion and maternal healthcare.

They are also concerned about the push against women’s rights and gender equality in Europe and the rest of the world, including the rollback of sexual and reproductive health and rights and attacks on women’s rights advocates. Parliament condemns anti-gender equality movements that seek to undermine equality and human rights.

Statement by the rapporteur

After the vote, Abir Al-Sahlani (Renew, Sweden) said: “This vote is a great victory for women in Europe. The EU has finally shown that sexual and reproductive health is a basic human right. EU citizens have spoken, showing their concern for women’s lives, health and rights. And the European Parliament has responded. This initiative shows what can be achieved when citizens and institutions join forces. This is what democracy is all about.

Next steps

The European Commission has until March 2026 to communicate whether it plans to take any action – legislative or otherwise – and to justify its decision.

The European Citizens’ Initiative

The European Citizens’ Initiative is a tool for EU citizens to ask the Commission to propose new legislation. To be considered, an initiative must have the support of one million people from at least seven EU countries. Since the introduction of the citizens’ initiative in the Lisbon Treaty, 13 initiatives have reached this threshold and three more are in the process of being verified.

The promoters of “My Voice, My Choice” gathered the support of 1.12 million people. They presented their proposal to MEPs at a public hearing in the European Parliament on 2 December. You can watch a recording of the debate.

More information: European Parliament