3 years ago
Finally, Argentina's Congress has legalized abortions up to the 14th week of pregnancy.
The lower house passed the bill after debating for 20 hours on Thursday into Friday morning. Senators voted in favor of the bill after a long discussion with 38 in favor, 29 against and one non-voting.
Abortions were permitted only in cases of rape or when the mother's health was at risk. The bill had been approved by the Chamber of Deputies on Dec 11.
The Catholic Church, which remains highly influential in Latin America, had opposed the move, calling on senators to reject the bill but women activists believe that the passing of the law in Argentina one of the largest and most influential countries in Latin America will inspire other countries to follow the same as part of women right.
Activists have campaigned for a change in the law for years. The passing came two years after senators voted against legalizing abortion.
