France has made history by enshrining the right to abortion in its constitution, a move celebrated by women’s rights advocates but criticized by anti-abortion groups, Reuters reports.
The decision was backed by an overwhelming majority of MPs and senators and passed with 780 votes in favor and 72 against. Prime Minister Gabriel Attal emphasized the message of bodily autonomy for women, stating that no one else can decide for them. The move was celebrated by activists in central Paris, with the Eiffel Tower displaying the message “MyBodyMyChoice.”
Abortion has been legal in France since 1974, with polls showing widespread support for its legality. However, the recent reversal of abortion rights in the United States prompted calls for explicit protection in French law. The vote amends Article 34 of the French constitution to ensure “the guaranteed freedom to have recourse to an abortion.”
