Legal Abortion in Uruguay? I Don't Think So

Filed in archive Latin Issues , Latinas on October 16, 2007

Today, the Uruguayan Senate is discussing the "Sexual and Reproductive Health Law Project". In fact, the Senators are discussing it right now, as I'm writing this. Among other issues, they must decide if they will approve the articles which allow women to have voluntary abortion before the 12º week of pregnancy. Abortion is legally punished in Uruguay since 1938.

I don't think abortion will be legalized in Uruguay any time soon. Ridiculously enough, President Tabaré Vázquez has already announced he will "kill the bill" by exercising the power of veto. So, what's the point?

The Senate is divided. Some of the Senators argue moral or religious reasons, others have a "scientific approach". Some even have political reasons! They say they must vote whatever their party is supporting - this goes specially for the Government party. This attitude is very disrespectful with the women who are going to be affected by their decision, one way or another. It's inhuman to think about politics and "loyalty to the party" when it comes to such a sensitive issue. Awful!

In Uruguay, abortion is an issue as serious as anywhere. It's offensive that the President think he can just say "veto", based on his personal beliefs, and problem solved, case closed. He doesn't have the right to do that, even being the President. It's morally wrong. He should at least listen to what the people has to say, trough a plebiscite.

I don't believe the people will be heard, and I don't believe the Senate will approve the articles regarding the legalization of abortion. And it sucks to be treated as if you didn't exist, you know?

I'll keep you posted, but don't hold your breath.

More info - in Spanish, the only sources I could find in Englich are from Catholic sites and they are biased:

Voces a favor y en contra de despenalizar el aborto
Parlamento uruguayo vota ley que despenaliza aborto y divide a los partidos
Habría Empate Técnico