The protest, held on September 28, called for easier and wider access to abortion services in France, and condemned budget cuts, downsizing and closures of abortion centers and maternity wards, which are said to contribute to the disadvantage of women.
French women sometimes have to travel to a remote area to access the medical services needed to have an abortion, said Sarah Durocher, president of the French non-profit family planning service.
Protesters hold a banner reading "Abortion is a fundamental right" in Paris on September 28. Photo: AP
Earlier this year, French lawmakers overwhelmingly approved a bill that would enshrine the right to abortion in the constitution. Abortion has been legal in France since 1975 and enjoys broad support across most political parties.
But many of those who took part in the September 28 protest said abortion rights should never be taken for granted, especially at a time when far-right nationalist parties are gaining influence in France and other European countries.
“Every time the far right comes to power, reproductive rights are threatened,” said Ms Durocher, noting that every nine minutes a woman dies worldwide because she cannot access safe abortion services.
Also at the September 28 march, a small organization representing Colombian women in Paris carried a large purple banner with a feminist symbol.
"Fortunately, in France, this is enshrined in the constitution... We will all fight for our rights, our rights to our bodies. It is our choice," said Talula Rodríguez, 49.
Ngoc Anh (according to AP)
Source: https://www.congluan.vn/demonstration-against-abortion-rights-o-paris-post314448.html
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