Polish Lawmakers Address Contradictions in Abortion Law Debate

Poland's parliament is preparing to debate several proposals aimed at liberalizing the nation's stringent abortion laws. As it stands, the law is among the strictest in Europe, with many women resorting to self-managed abortions using pills obtained from abroad. Prime Minister Donald Tusk, whose government includes left-wing politicians and Christian democrats, has committed to legalizing abortion up to the 12th week of pregnancy. This promise was a key part of his election campaign.

Despite this pledge, there is significant opposition from conservative forces within the country, including President Andrzej Duda and parliament speaker Szymon Hołownia, who have the ability to block legislative changes. The debate is expected to address bills put forward by the three coalition groups, with varying degrees of liberalization, including one that would permit abortion without limitations until 12 weeks and another to allow terminations in cases of fetal abnormalities.

The current legal framework in Poland permits abortion in instances of rape, incest, or when the woman's health or life is endangered. However, abortions due to fetal defects have been banned, and there are reports that some doctors refuse to perform legally permitted abortions. The length of the parliamentary debates and whether President Duda will exercise his veto power remains uncertain.