Pregnancy Termination in Austria Difficult and Often Stigmatized

Amnesty International sees the right to abortion in Europe as threatened. This is shown by a report released on Thursday by the NGO, which examined the situation in 40 countries. According to Monica Costa Riba, women's rights expert at Amnesty, there is a "real danger that hard-won gains in reproductive rights could be reversed by a wave of regressive policy measures." In Austria, there are still numerous hurdles and stigmatization.

Right to Abortion in Europe in Danger

"Anti-human rights groups" are trying in Europe to influence politics and the judiciary to further restrict access to abortions, according to the related press release. Riba further explained that these developments are being driven by an "anti-gender movement" and "populist politicians" who use "authoritarian practices." European governments and institutions must therefore "act decisively" to bring abortions "in line with international standards." In this context, there is a call to decriminalize abortions, remove existing hurdles, and resolutely oppose all efforts by anti-human rights groups.

According to the NGO, hurdles in parts of Europe include the criminalization of abortions, long waiting times, high costs, and social stigma. Marginalized groups, such as people in poverty, young people, people with disabilities, people from the LGBTIQ community, sex workers, asylum seekers, and people with insecure migration status are disproportionately affected by the restrictions.

Hurdles and Stigmatization Also in Austria

Even in this country, access is still characterized by hurdles and stigmatization, according to the report, which "massively restrict" pregnant individuals in their self-determination. "In Austria, there is the misconception that we are doing well in terms of access to abortions. Unfortunately, this is not true. While other countries, like France, are taking a step forward, there is stagnation in Austria," said Ronya Alev, Advocacy and Research Officer at Amnesty International Austria.

It is particularly highlighted that abortions in Austria are still anchored in the penal code and not recognized as a regular health service. They are exempt from penalties if performed within the first three months of pregnancy after medical consultation. This can happen for medical reasons, or if the pregnancy poses a threat to the life or health of the pregnant person. The costs are covered by social insurance if the abortion is for medical reasons.

Only Vienna and Tyrol with Support for Pregnant Women

According to Amnesty International, the costs usually have to be borne privately, with only Vienna and Tyrol providing financial support to pregnant individuals upon application. Isabel Tanzer from the association Changes for Women emphasized in the press release that even in Vienna, only two public hospitals perform abortions. The capacities are therefore limited, and many ultimately have to cover the costs themselves even in Vienna.

(APA/Red)

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