16 to 18 Year Old Girls in Spain may no Longer Need Parental Consent to Abort
Irene Montero, Spain's equality minister, has told Congress's Equality Commission that 16 to 18 year old girls should be allowed to access abortion without consulting their parents. This would allow for the daughter of Christian parents to complete an abortion without them knowing or being able to advise her on this life changing event. This change has no set date yet but will greatly affect the lives of minor girls if enacted.
This proposed change will not only allow for 16 to 18 year old girls to terminate a pregnancy without parental approval, but will also abolish the three day period of reflection which is currently mandatory before an abortion is granted. This would limit the chance for girls to seek alternative options and gain advice from their parents. It would also allow for more impulsive decisions to made and reduce the chances of necessary guidance sought.
Getting these changes passed may not be easy as the coalition government does not have a majority and will need support from other parties. The Unandis Podemis party, of which Irene Montero is a part, and the Socialist Party (PSOE) only have 177 seats of the 350 and would need an absolute majority. This new reform is a reflection of the government’s pledge to give women their reproductive rights.
This proposed legislation would have large consequences as the Accredited Abortion Clinic Association (ACAI), claims it would affect 400 to 500 girls in this age bracket. Christians may find their faith challenged if this reformed law progresses.
Sources: Catalan News, El Pais