Importance of talking about abortion

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FILE PHOTO: A combination photo shows an anti-abortion protest march (L) and a pro-abortion rights protester holds a sign as he confronts an anti-abortion demonstration in Queens, New York, U.S. on October 20, 2012. REUTERS/Andrew Kelly/File Photo

The topic of abortion has always spawned a never ending tug of war over the pros and cons of the medical procedure.

The two formidable blocs in this drawn out debate have been faith-based organisations and women’s groups.

Now, as the push to relax laws on abortion continues on the international stage, social media platforms are abuzz with “noise” of different sounds.

Given the sensitivities and controversies surrounding abortion, it would be nice to engage in healthy and civilised public discussions over the issue.

According to Chapter three, Part 14 of the Crimes Act 2009, abortion is described as an “indictable offence” and anyone found guilty of performing it can be imprisoned for up to 14 years.

The Act stipulates that it can only be performed by a legally registered medical practitioner (in good faith, with skill and care), if it is intended to save a pregnant woman’s life or if the pregnancy is likely to seriously threaten the woman’s physical or mental health.

More in today’s edition of The Fiji Times.

 

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