Global Abortion Policies Database
A tool to expand knowledge, encourage transparency, and promote accountability.
| Country or Region | |
|---|---|
Holy See / Vatican City State |
No
Read more WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. This legal ground recognizes a woman’s free choice. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.1.6.
Additional notesUnder the Code of Canon Law, abortion is treated as a 'delict against human life and freedom' under Title VI (1). The Code of Canon Law states: "A person who procures a completed abortion incurs a late sententiae excommunication." (1) Canon 1398 does not specifically mention accomplices.
Canon 1329.2 states: "Accomplices who are not named in a law or precept incur a late sententiae penalty attached to a delict if without their assistance the delict would not have been committed, and the penalty is of such a nature that it can affect them; otherwise, they can be punished by ferendae sententiae penalties." (2)
The Code of Canon Law defines penalties as follows: "Generally, a penalty is ferendae sententiae, so that it does not bind the guilty party until after it has been imposed; if the law or precept expressly establishes it, however, a penalty is late sententiae, so that it is incurred ipso facto when the delict is committed." (3)
The Code of Canon Law makes stipulations regarding persons who "are not subject to a penalty when they have violated a law or precept" which are relevant to abortion (2, Canon 1323). It further sets out cases in which "the perpetrator of a violation is not exempt from a penalty, but the penalty established by law or precept must be tempered or a penance employed in its place if the delict was committed" (2, Canon 1324).
In an Apostolic Letter on 20 November 2016, Pope Francis stated: “I henceforth grant to all priests, in virtue of their ministry, the faculty to absolve those who have committed the sin of procured abortion.” The Letter can be accessed at: http://w2.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/apost_letters/documents/papa-francesco-lettera-ap_20161120_misericordia-et-misera.html
According to the 2008 Act on the Sources of Law, the Vatican legal system recognizes the Code of Canon Law as the first normative source. The Act on the Sources of Law further specifies that matters not addressed by the Code of Canon Law are governed by Italian law, subject to specific caveats. (See also Law N.IX Amendments to the Criminal Code and the Code of Criminal Procedure of 11 July 2013: "[…..] considering that - pursuant to articles 7 and 8 of the Act on the sources of Law of 1 October 2008, N. LXXI, the Italian Criminal Code and the Italian Code of Criminal Procedure received into the Vatican legal system by the Law of 7 June 1929, n. II, are currently in force in the Vatican City State; [….]" (5)) Related documents: |
| Country | Economic or social reasons |
Foetal impairment |
Rape |
Incest |
Intellectual or cognitive disability of the woman |
Mental health |
Physical health |
Health |
Life |
Other |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Holy See / Vatican City State |
WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. WHO defines health for member states as a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.1.5.
Additional notesUnder the Code of Canon Law, abortion is treated as a 'delict against human life and freedom' under Title VI (1). The Code of Canon Law states: "A person who procures a completed abortion incurs a late sententiae excommunication." (1) Canon 1398 does not specifically mention accomplices.
Canon 1329.2 states: "Accomplices who are not named in a law or precept incur a late sententiae penalty attached to a delict if without their assistance the delict would not have been committed, and the penalty is of such a nature that it can affect them; otherwise, they can be punished by ferendae sententiae penalties." (2)
The Code of Canon Law defines penalties as follows: "Generally, a penalty is ferendae sententiae, so that it does not bind the guilty party until after it has been imposed; if the law or precept expressly establishes it, however, a penalty is late sententiae, so that it is incurred ipso facto when the delict is committed." (3)
The Code of Canon Law makes stipulations regarding persons who "are not subject to a penalty when they have violated a law or precept" which are relevant to abortion (2, Canon 1323). It further sets out cases in which "the perpetrator of a violation is not exempt from a penalty, but the penalty established by law or precept must be tempered or a penance employed in its place if the delict was committed" (2, Canon 1324).
In an Apostolic Letter on 20 November 2016, Pope Francis stated: “I henceforth grant to all priests, in virtue of their ministry, the faculty to absolve those who have committed the sin of procured abortion.” The Letter can be accessed at: http://w2.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/apost_letters/documents/papa-francesco-lettera-ap_20161120_misericordia-et-misera.html
According to the 2008 Act on the Sources of Law, the Vatican legal system recognizes the Code of Canon Law as the first normative source. The Act on the Sources of Law further specifies that matters not addressed by the Code of Canon Law are governed by Italian law, subject to specific caveats. (See also Law N.IX Amendments to the Criminal Code and the Code of Criminal Procedure of 11 July 2013: "[…..] considering that - pursuant to articles 7 and 8 of the Act on the sources of Law of 1 October 2008, N. LXXI, the Italian Criminal Code and the Italian Code of Criminal Procedure received into the Vatican legal system by the Law of 7 June 1929, n. II, are currently in force in the Vatican City State; [….]" (5)) Related documents: |
WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. A woman is entitled to know the status of her pregnancy and to act on this information; health protection or social reasons can be interpreted to include distress of the pregnant woman caused by the diagnosis of fetal impairment. Prenatal tests and other medical diagnostic services cannot legally be refused because the woman may decide to terminate her pregnancy. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.1.4.
Additional notesUnder the Code of Canon Law, abortion is treated as a 'delict against human life and freedom' under Title VI (1). The Code of Canon Law states: "A person who procures a completed abortion incurs a late sententiae excommunication." (1) Canon 1398 does not specifically mention accomplices.
Canon 1329.2 states: "Accomplices who are not named in a law or precept incur a late sententiae penalty attached to a delict if without their assistance the delict would not have been committed, and the penalty is of such a nature that it can affect them; otherwise, they can be punished by ferendae sententiae penalties." (2)
The Code of Canon Law defines penalties as follows: "Generally, a penalty is ferendae sententiae, so that it does not bind the guilty party until after it has been imposed; if the law or precept expressly establishes it, however, a penalty is late sententiae, so that it is incurred ipso facto when the delict is committed." (3)
The Code of Canon Law makes stipulations regarding persons who "are not subject to a penalty when they have violated a law or precept" which are relevant to abortion (2, Canon 1323). It further sets out cases in which "the perpetrator of a violation is not exempt from a penalty, but the penalty established by law or precept must be tempered or a penance employed in its place if the delict was committed" (2, Canon 1324).
In an Apostolic Letter on 20 November 2016, Pope Francis stated: “I henceforth grant to all priests, in virtue of their ministry, the faculty to absolve those who have committed the sin of procured abortion.” The Letter can be accessed at: http://w2.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/apost_letters/documents/papa-francesco-lettera-ap_20161120_misericordia-et-misera.html
According to the 2008 Act on the Sources of Law, the Vatican legal system recognizes the Code of Canon Law as the first normative source. The Act on the Sources of Law further specifies that matters not addressed by the Code of Canon Law are governed by Italian law, subject to specific caveats. (See also Law N.IX Amendments to the Criminal Code and the Code of Criminal Procedure of 11 July 2013: "[…..] considering that - pursuant to articles 7 and 8 of the Act on the sources of Law of 1 October 2008, N. LXXI, the Italian Criminal Code and the Italian Code of Criminal Procedure received into the Vatican legal system by the Law of 7 June 1929, n. II, are currently in force in the Vatican City State; [….]" (5)) Related documents: |
WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. The protection of women from cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment requires that those who have become pregnant as the result of coerced or forced sexual acts can lawfully access safe abortion services. Prompt, safe abortion services should be provided on the basis of a woman’s complaint rather than requiring forensic evidence or police examination. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.1.3.
Additional notesUnder the Code of Canon Law, abortion is treated as a 'delict against human life and freedom' under Title VI (1). The Code of Canon Law states: "A person who procures a completed abortion incurs a late sententiae excommunication." (1) Canon 1398 does not specifically mention accomplices.
Canon 1329.2 states: "Accomplices who are not named in a law or precept incur a late sententiae penalty attached to a delict if without their assistance the delict would not have been committed, and the penalty is of such a nature that it can affect them; otherwise, they can be punished by ferendae sententiae penalties." (2)
The Code of Canon Law defines penalties as follows: "Generally, a penalty is ferendae sententiae, so that it does not bind the guilty party until after it has been imposed; if the law or precept expressly establishes it, however, a penalty is late sententiae, so that it is incurred ipso facto when the delict is committed." (3)
The Code of Canon Law makes stipulations regarding persons who "are not subject to a penalty when they have violated a law or precept" which are relevant to abortion (2, Canon 1323). It further sets out cases in which "the perpetrator of a violation is not exempt from a penalty, but the penalty established by law or precept must be tempered or a penance employed in its place if the delict was committed" (2, Canon 1324).
In an Apostolic Letter on 20 November 2016, Pope Francis stated: “I henceforth grant to all priests, in virtue of their ministry, the faculty to absolve those who have committed the sin of procured abortion.” The Letter can be accessed at: http://w2.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/apost_letters/documents/papa-francesco-lettera-ap_20161120_misericordia-et-misera.html
According to the 2008 Act on the Sources of Law, the Vatican legal system recognizes the Code of Canon Law as the first normative source. The Act on the Sources of Law further specifies that matters not addressed by the Code of Canon Law are governed by Italian law, subject to specific caveats. (See also Law N.IX Amendments to the Criminal Code and the Code of Criminal Procedure of 11 July 2013: "[…..] considering that - pursuant to articles 7 and 8 of the Act on the sources of Law of 1 October 2008, N. LXXI, the Italian Criminal Code and the Italian Code of Criminal Procedure received into the Vatican legal system by the Law of 7 June 1929, n. II, are currently in force in the Vatican City State; [….]" (5)) Related documents: |
WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. The protection of women from cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment requires that those who have become pregnant as the result of coerced or forced sexual acts can lawfully access safe abortion services. Prompt, safe abortion services should be provided on the basis of a woman’s complaint rather than requiring forensic evidence or police examination. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.1.3.
Additional notesUnder the Code of Canon Law, abortion is treated as a 'delict against human life and freedom' under Title VI (1). The Code of Canon Law states: "A person who procures a completed abortion incurs a late sententiae excommunication." (1) Canon 1398 does not specifically mention accomplices.
Canon 1329.2 states: "Accomplices who are not named in a law or precept incur a late sententiae penalty attached to a delict if without their assistance the delict would not have been committed, and the penalty is of such a nature that it can affect them; otherwise, they can be punished by ferendae sententiae penalties." (2)
The Code of Canon Law defines penalties as follows: "Generally, a penalty is ferendae sententiae, so that it does not bind the guilty party until after it has been imposed; if the law or precept expressly establishes it, however, a penalty is late sententiae, so that it is incurred ipso facto when the delict is committed." (3)
The Code of Canon Law makes stipulations regarding persons who "are not subject to a penalty when they have violated a law or precept" which are relevant to abortion (2, Canon 1323). It further sets out cases in which "the perpetrator of a violation is not exempt from a penalty, but the penalty established by law or precept must be tempered or a penance employed in its place if the delict was committed" (2, Canon 1324).
In an Apostolic Letter on 20 November 2016, Pope Francis stated: “I henceforth grant to all priests, in virtue of their ministry, the faculty to absolve those who have committed the sin of procured abortion.” The Letter can be accessed at: http://w2.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/apost_letters/documents/papa-francesco-lettera-ap_20161120_misericordia-et-misera.html
According to the 2008 Act on the Sources of Law, the Vatican legal system recognizes the Code of Canon Law as the first normative source. The Act on the Sources of Law further specifies that matters not addressed by the Code of Canon Law are governed by Italian law, subject to specific caveats. (See also Law N.IX Amendments to the Criminal Code and the Code of Criminal Procedure of 11 July 2013: "[…..] considering that - pursuant to articles 7 and 8 of the Act on the sources of Law of 1 October 2008, N. LXXI, the Italian Criminal Code and the Italian Code of Criminal Procedure received into the Vatican legal system by the Law of 7 June 1929, n. II, are currently in force in the Vatican City State; [….]" (5)) Related documents: |
Intellectual or cognitive disability of the womanNo Related documents:Additional notesUnder the Code of Canon Law, abortion is treated as a 'delict against human life and freedom' under Title VI (1). The Code of Canon Law states: "A person who procures a completed abortion incurs a late sententiae excommunication." (1) Canon 1398 does not specifically mention accomplices.
Canon 1329.2 states: "Accomplices who are not named in a law or precept incur a late sententiae penalty attached to a delict if without their assistance the delict would not have been committed, and the penalty is of such a nature that it can affect them; otherwise, they can be punished by ferendae sententiae penalties." (2)
The Code of Canon Law defines penalties as follows: "Generally, a penalty is ferendae sententiae, so that it does not bind the guilty party until after it has been imposed; if the law or precept expressly establishes it, however, a penalty is late sententiae, so that it is incurred ipso facto when the delict is committed." (3)
The Code of Canon Law makes stipulations regarding persons who "are not subject to a penalty when they have violated a law or precept" which are relevant to abortion (2, Canon 1323). It further sets out cases in which "the perpetrator of a violation is not exempt from a penalty, but the penalty established by law or precept must be tempered or a penance employed in its place if the delict was committed" (2, Canon 1324).
In an Apostolic Letter on 20 November 2016, Pope Francis stated: “I henceforth grant to all priests, in virtue of their ministry, the faculty to absolve those who have committed the sin of procured abortion.” The Letter can be accessed at: http://w2.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/apost_letters/documents/papa-francesco-lettera-ap_20161120_misericordia-et-misera.html
According to the 2008 Act on the Sources of Law, the Vatican legal system recognizes the Code of Canon Law as the first normative source. The Act on the Sources of Law further specifies that matters not addressed by the Code of Canon Law are governed by Italian law, subject to specific caveats. (See also Law N.IX Amendments to the Criminal Code and the Code of Criminal Procedure of 11 July 2013: "[…..] considering that - pursuant to articles 7 and 8 of the Act on the sources of Law of 1 October 2008, N. LXXI, the Italian Criminal Code and the Italian Code of Criminal Procedure received into the Vatican legal system by the Law of 7 June 1929, n. II, are currently in force in the Vatican City State; [….]" (5)) Related documents: |
WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. The scope of mental health includes psychological distress or mental suffering caused by, for example, coerced or forced sexual acts and diagnosis of severe fetal impairment. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.1.2.
Additional notesUnder the Code of Canon Law, abortion is treated as a 'delict against human life and freedom' under Title VI (1). The Code of Canon Law states: "A person who procures a completed abortion incurs a late sententiae excommunication." (1) Canon 1398 does not specifically mention accomplices.
Canon 1329.2 states: "Accomplices who are not named in a law or precept incur a late sententiae penalty attached to a delict if without their assistance the delict would not have been committed, and the penalty is of such a nature that it can affect them; otherwise, they can be punished by ferendae sententiae penalties." (2)
The Code of Canon Law defines penalties as follows: "Generally, a penalty is ferendae sententiae, so that it does not bind the guilty party until after it has been imposed; if the law or precept expressly establishes it, however, a penalty is late sententiae, so that it is incurred ipso facto when the delict is committed." (3)
The Code of Canon Law makes stipulations regarding persons who "are not subject to a penalty when they have violated a law or precept" which are relevant to abortion (2, Canon 1323). It further sets out cases in which "the perpetrator of a violation is not exempt from a penalty, but the penalty established by law or precept must be tempered or a penance employed in its place if the delict was committed" (2, Canon 1324).
In an Apostolic Letter on 20 November 2016, Pope Francis stated: “I henceforth grant to all priests, in virtue of their ministry, the faculty to absolve those who have committed the sin of procured abortion.” The Letter can be accessed at: http://w2.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/apost_letters/documents/papa-francesco-lettera-ap_20161120_misericordia-et-misera.html
According to the 2008 Act on the Sources of Law, the Vatican legal system recognizes the Code of Canon Law as the first normative source. The Act on the Sources of Law further specifies that matters not addressed by the Code of Canon Law are governed by Italian law, subject to specific caveats. (See also Law N.IX Amendments to the Criminal Code and the Code of Criminal Procedure of 11 July 2013: "[…..] considering that - pursuant to articles 7 and 8 of the Act on the sources of Law of 1 October 2008, N. LXXI, the Italian Criminal Code and the Italian Code of Criminal Procedure received into the Vatican legal system by the Law of 7 June 1929, n. II, are currently in force in the Vatican City State; [….]" (5)) Related documents: |
WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. Physical health is widely understood to include conditions that aggravate pregnancy and those aggravated by pregnancy. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.1.2.
Additional notesUnder the Code of Canon Law, abortion is treated as a 'delict against human life and freedom' under Title VI (1). The Code of Canon Law states: "A person who procures a completed abortion incurs a late sententiae excommunication." (1) Canon 1398 does not specifically mention accomplices.
Canon 1329.2 states: "Accomplices who are not named in a law or precept incur a late sententiae penalty attached to a delict if without their assistance the delict would not have been committed, and the penalty is of such a nature that it can affect them; otherwise, they can be punished by ferendae sententiae penalties." (2)
The Code of Canon Law defines penalties as follows: "Generally, a penalty is ferendae sententiae, so that it does not bind the guilty party until after it has been imposed; if the law or precept expressly establishes it, however, a penalty is late sententiae, so that it is incurred ipso facto when the delict is committed." (3)
The Code of Canon Law makes stipulations regarding persons who "are not subject to a penalty when they have violated a law or precept" which are relevant to abortion (2, Canon 1323). It further sets out cases in which "the perpetrator of a violation is not exempt from a penalty, but the penalty established by law or precept must be tempered or a penance employed in its place if the delict was committed" (2, Canon 1324).
In an Apostolic Letter on 20 November 2016, Pope Francis stated: “I henceforth grant to all priests, in virtue of their ministry, the faculty to absolve those who have committed the sin of procured abortion.” The Letter can be accessed at: http://w2.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/apost_letters/documents/papa-francesco-lettera-ap_20161120_misericordia-et-misera.html
According to the 2008 Act on the Sources of Law, the Vatican legal system recognizes the Code of Canon Law as the first normative source. The Act on the Sources of Law further specifies that matters not addressed by the Code of Canon Law are governed by Italian law, subject to specific caveats. (See also Law N.IX Amendments to the Criminal Code and the Code of Criminal Procedure of 11 July 2013: "[…..] considering that - pursuant to articles 7 and 8 of the Act on the sources of Law of 1 October 2008, N. LXXI, the Italian Criminal Code and the Italian Code of Criminal Procedure received into the Vatican legal system by the Law of 7 June 1929, n. II, are currently in force in the Vatican City State; [….]" (5)) Related documents: |
WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. The fulfillment of human rights requires that women can access safe abortion when it is indicated to protect their health. WHO defines health for member states as a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.1.2.
Additional notesUnder the Code of Canon Law, abortion is treated as a 'delict against human life and freedom' under Title VI (1). The Code of Canon Law states: "A person who procures a completed abortion incurs a late sententiae excommunication." (1) Canon 1398 does not specifically mention accomplices.
Canon 1329.2 states: "Accomplices who are not named in a law or precept incur a late sententiae penalty attached to a delict if without their assistance the delict would not have been committed, and the penalty is of such a nature that it can affect them; otherwise, they can be punished by ferendae sententiae penalties." (2)
The Code of Canon Law defines penalties as follows: "Generally, a penalty is ferendae sententiae, so that it does not bind the guilty party until after it has been imposed; if the law or precept expressly establishes it, however, a penalty is late sententiae, so that it is incurred ipso facto when the delict is committed." (3)
The Code of Canon Law makes stipulations regarding persons who "are not subject to a penalty when they have violated a law or precept" which are relevant to abortion (2, Canon 1323). It further sets out cases in which "the perpetrator of a violation is not exempt from a penalty, but the penalty established by law or precept must be tempered or a penance employed in its place if the delict was committed" (2, Canon 1324).
In an Apostolic Letter on 20 November 2016, Pope Francis stated: “I henceforth grant to all priests, in virtue of their ministry, the faculty to absolve those who have committed the sin of procured abortion.” The Letter can be accessed at: http://w2.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/apost_letters/documents/papa-francesco-lettera-ap_20161120_misericordia-et-misera.html
According to the 2008 Act on the Sources of Law, the Vatican legal system recognizes the Code of Canon Law as the first normative source. The Act on the Sources of Law further specifies that matters not addressed by the Code of Canon Law are governed by Italian law, subject to specific caveats. (See also Law N.IX Amendments to the Criminal Code and the Code of Criminal Procedure of 11 July 2013: "[…..] considering that - pursuant to articles 7 and 8 of the Act on the sources of Law of 1 October 2008, N. LXXI, the Italian Criminal Code and the Italian Code of Criminal Procedure received into the Vatican legal system by the Law of 7 June 1929, n. II, are currently in force in the Vatican City State; [….]" (5)) Related documents: |
WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. The human right to life requires protection by law, including when pregnancy is life-threatening or a pregnant woman’s life is otherwise endangered. Both medical and social conditions can constitute life-threatening conditions. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.1.1.
Additional notesUnder the Code of Canon Law, abortion is treated as a 'delict against human life and freedom' under Title VI (1). The Code of Canon Law states: "A person who procures a completed abortion incurs a late sententiae excommunication." (1) Canon 1398 does not specifically mention accomplices.
Canon 1329.2 states: "Accomplices who are not named in a law or precept incur a late sententiae penalty attached to a delict if without their assistance the delict would not have been committed, and the penalty is of such a nature that it can affect them; otherwise, they can be punished by ferendae sententiae penalties." (2)
The Code of Canon Law defines penalties as follows: "Generally, a penalty is ferendae sententiae, so that it does not bind the guilty party until after it has been imposed; if the law or precept expressly establishes it, however, a penalty is late sententiae, so that it is incurred ipso facto when the delict is committed." (3)
The Code of Canon Law makes stipulations regarding persons who "are not subject to a penalty when they have violated a law or precept" which are relevant to abortion (2, Canon 1323). It further sets out cases in which "the perpetrator of a violation is not exempt from a penalty, but the penalty established by law or precept must be tempered or a penance employed in its place if the delict was committed" (2, Canon 1324).
In an Apostolic Letter on 20 November 2016, Pope Francis stated: “I henceforth grant to all priests, in virtue of their ministry, the faculty to absolve those who have committed the sin of procured abortion.” The Letter can be accessed at: http://w2.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/apost_letters/documents/papa-francesco-lettera-ap_20161120_misericordia-et-misera.html
According to the 2008 Act on the Sources of Law, the Vatican legal system recognizes the Code of Canon Law as the first normative source. The Act on the Sources of Law further specifies that matters not addressed by the Code of Canon Law are governed by Italian law, subject to specific caveats. (See also Law N.IX Amendments to the Criminal Code and the Code of Criminal Procedure of 11 July 2013: "[…..] considering that - pursuant to articles 7 and 8 of the Act on the sources of Law of 1 October 2008, N. LXXI, the Italian Criminal Code and the Italian Code of Criminal Procedure received into the Vatican legal system by the Law of 7 June 1929, n. II, are currently in force in the Vatican City State; [….]" (5)) Related documents: |
Other
|
| Country | Authorization of health professional(s) |
Authorization in specially licensed facilities only |
Judicial authorization for minors |
Judicial authorization in cases of rape |
Police report required in case of rape |
Parental consent required for minors |
Spousal consent |
Ultrasound images or listen to foetal heartbeat required |
Compulsory counselling |
Compulsory waiting period |
Mandatory HIV screening test |
Other mandatory STI screening tests |
Prohibition of sex-selective abortion |
Restrictions on information provided to the public |
Restrictions on methods to detect sex of the foetus |
Other |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Holy See / Vatican City State |
Authorization of health professional(s)Not applicable WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. Third-party authorization should not be required for women to obtain abortion services. The requirement for authorization by hospital authorities may violate the right to privacy and women’s access to health care on the basis of equality of men and women. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.2.2.
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Authorization in specially licensed facilities onlyNot applicable WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. Restrictions on the range of providers or facilities that are authorized to provide abortion reduce the availability of services and their equitable geographic distribution. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.2.4.
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Judicial authorization for minorsNot applicable WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. Third-party authorization should not be required for women to obtain abortion services. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.2.
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Judicial authorization in cases of rapeNot applicable WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. Laws, policies and practices that restrict access to abortion information and services can deter women from care seeking and create a “chilling effect” (suppression of actions because of fear of reprisals or penalties) for the provision of safe, legal services. Examples of barriers include: requiring third-party authorization from one or more medical professionals or a hospital committee, court or police, parent or guardian or a woman’s partner or spouse. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.2
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Police report required in case of rapeNot applicable WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. Laws, policies and practices that restrict access to abortion information and services can deter women from care seeking and create a “chilling effect” (suppression of actions because of fear of reprisals or penalties) for the provision of safe, legal services. Examples of barriers include: requiring third-party authorization from one or more medical professionals or a hospital committee, court or police, parent or guardian or a woman’s partner or spouse. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.2
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Parental consent required for minorsNot applicable WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. Third-party authorization should not be required for women to obtain abortion services. The requirement for authorization by parents may violate the right to privacy and women’s access to health care on the basis of equality of men and women. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.2.2.
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Spousal consentNot applicable WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. Third-party authorization should not be required for women to obtain abortion services. The requirement for authorization by a spouse may violate the right to privacy and women’s access to health care on the basis of equality of men and women. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.2.2.
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Ultrasound images or listen to foetal heartbeat requiredNot applicable WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. Regulatory, policy and programmatic barriers, one example of which is the requirement for mandatory ultrasound prior to abortion, that hinder access to and timely provision of safe abortion care should be removed. Safe Abortion Guidelines, Executive Summary, Box 7 - Recommendation.
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Compulsory counsellingNot applicable WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. Many women have made a decision to have an abortion before seeking care, and this decision should be respected without subjecting a woman to mandatory counselling. Provision of counselling to women who desire it should be voluntary, confidential, non-directive and by a trained person. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 2.1.8.1.
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Compulsory waiting periodNot applicable WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. States should consider eliminating waiting periods that are not medically required, and expanding services to serve all eligible women promptly. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.2.6.
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Mandatory HIV screening testNot applicable WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. Requirements for HIV and other tests that are not clinically indicated are potential service-delivery barriers. Safe Abortion Guidelines, p 88.
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Other mandatory STI screening testsNot applicable WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. Requirements for HIV and other tests that are not clinically indicated are potential service-delivery barriers. Safe Abortion Guidelines, p 88.
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Prohibition of sex-selective abortionNot applicable WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. In situations where abortion is restricted for sex selection purposes, terminating a pregnancy for this reason is likely to involve an unsafe procedure carrying high risks. Any policies or guidelines on the use of technology in obstetric and fetal medicine should take into account the need to ensure women’s access to safe abortion and other services - efforts to manage or limit sex selection should also not hamper or limit access to safe abortion services. Preventing gender-biased sex selection: an interagency statement, p 10 - Recommendation.
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Restrictions on information provided to the publicNot applicable WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. States should refrain from limiting access to means of maintaining sexual and reproductive health, including censoring, withholding or intentionally misrepresenting health-related information. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.2.7.
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No data
Restrictions on methods to detect sex of the foetusNo data found WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. A woman is entitled to know the status of her pregnancy and to act on this information. Prenatal tests and other medical diagnostic services cannot legally be refused because the woman may decide to terminate her pregnancy. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.1.4.
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Other |
| Country | National guidelines for induced abortion |
Methods allowed |
Country recognized approval (mifepristone / mife-misoprostol) |
Country recognized approval (misoprostol) |
Where can abortion services be provided |
National guidelines for post-abortion care |
Where can post abortion care services be provided |
Contraception included in post-abortion care |
Insurance to offset end user costs |
Who can provide abortion services |
Extra facility/provider requirements for delivery of abortion services |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Holy See / Vatican City State |
National guidelines for induced abortionNot applicable WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. Standards and guidelines should be developed and updated with the intent of eliminating barriers to obtaining the highest attainable standard of sexual and reproductive health. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 3.3. Standards and guidelines should cover: types of abortion service, where and by whom they can be provided; essential equipment, instruments, medications, supplies and facility capabilities; referral mechanisms; respect for women’s informed decision-making, autonomy, confidentiality and privacy. Safe Abortion Guidelines, p. 63.
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Methods allowedVacuum aspirationNot applicable Dilatation and evacuationNot applicable Combination mifepristone-misoprostolNot applicable Misoprostol onlyNot applicable Other (where provided)
WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. Vacuum aspiration is the recommended technique of surgical abortion for pregnancies of up to 12 to 14 weeks of gestation. The procedure should not be routinely completed by dilatation and sharp curettage (D&C). Safe Abortion Guidelines, Executive Summary, Box 1- Recommendation.
Dilatation and evacuation (D&E) and medical methods (mifepristone and misoprostol; misoprostol alone) are both recommended methods for abortion for gestations over 12 to 14 weeks. Safe Abortion Guidelines, Executive Summary, Box 3- Recommendation.
The recommended method for medical abortion is mifepristone followed by misoprostol (regimen differs by gestational age). Safe Abortion Guidelines, Executive Summary, Box 2- Recommendation.
Where mifepristone is not available, the recommended method for medical abortion is misoprostol (regimen differs by gestational age). Safe Abortion Guidelines, Executive Summary, Box 2- Recommendation.
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No data
Country recognized approval (mifepristone / mife-misoprostol)No data found WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. The combination of mifepristone and misoprostol for medical abortion is included on the WHO model list of essential medicines. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 2.2.5
Chemists/pharmacists can help women avoid unintended pregnancy through provision of accurate contraceptive information, pregnancy tests, contraceptive methods and referral to safe abortion services. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 3.3.1.1.
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No data
Country recognized approval (misoprostol)No data found WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. The combination of mifepristone and misoprostol for medical abortion is included on the WHO model list of essential medicines. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 2.2.5
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No data
Where can abortion services be providedNo data found Other (if applicable)
WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. Abortion services should be available at primary-care level, with referral systems in place for all required higher-level care. Safe Abortion Guidelines, Executive Summary, Box 6- Recommendation.
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No data
National guidelines for post-abortion careNo data found WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. Standards and guidelines should be developed and updated with the intent of eliminating barriers to obtaining the highest attainable standard of sexual and reproductive health. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 3.3. Standards and guidelines should cover: types of abortion service, where and by whom they can be provided; essential equipment, instruments, medications, supplies and facility capabilities; referral mechanisms; respect for women’s informed decision-making, autonomy, confidentiality and privacy. Safe Abortion Guidelines, p. 63.
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Where can post abortion care services be providedPrimary health-care centresNo data found Secondary (district-level) health-care facilitiesNo data found Specialized abortion care public facilitiesNo data found Private health-care centres or clinicsNo data found NGO health-care centres or clinicsNo data found Other (if applicable)
WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. The facilities and skills required to manage most abortion complications are similar to those needed to care for women who have had a spontaneous abortion (miscarriage). Safe Abortion Guidelines § 2.2.6.
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No data
Contraception included in post-abortion careNo data found WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. All women should receive contraceptive information and be offered counselling for and methods of post-abortion contraception, including emergency contraception, before leaving the health-care facility. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 2.3.
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No data
Insurance to offset end user costsNo data found Other (if applicable)
WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. Financing of abortion services should take into account costs to the health system while ensuring that services are affordable and readily available to all women who need them. Safe Abortion Guidelines, Executive Summary, Box 6 - Recommendation. Abortion services should be mandated for coverage under insurance plans; women should never be denied or delayed because of the inability to pay. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 3.6.2.
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No data
Who can provide abortion servicesNo data found Other (if applicable)
WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. Subject to gestational age and method, abortion care can be safely provided by any properly trained health-care provider, including specialist doctors, non-specialist doctors; associate and advanced associate clinicians; midwives; and nurses. Health Worker Roles in Safe Abortion Care, p 33- Recommendation.
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Extra facility/provider requirements for delivery of abortion servicesReferral linkages to a higher-level facilityNot applicable Availability of a specialist doctor, including OB/GYNNot applicable Minimum number of bedsNot applicable Other (if applicable)
WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. Abortion facilities within both the public and private sectors should be available at all levels of the health system, with appropriate referral mechanisms between facilities. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 3.3.1.
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| Country | Public sector providers |
Private sector providers |
Provider type not specified |
Neither Type of Provider Permitted |
Public facilities |
Private facilities |
Facility type not specified |
Neither Type of Facility Permitted |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Holy See / Vatican City State |
No data
Public sector providersNo data found WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. Health-care professionals who claim conscientious objection must refer the woman to another willing and trained provider in the same, or another easily accessible health-care facility. Where referral is not possible, the health-care professional who objects, must provide safe abortion to save the woman’s life, to prevent serious injury to her health and provide urgent care when women present with complications from an unsafe or illegal abortion. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.2.5.
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No data
Private sector providersNo data found WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. Health-care professionals who claim conscientious objection must refer the woman to another willing and trained provider in the same, or another easily accessible health-care facility. Where referral is not possible, the health-care professional who objects, must provide safe abortion to save the woman’s life, to prevent serious injury to her health and provide urgent care when women present with complications from an unsafe or illegal abortion. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.2.5.
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No data
Provider type not specifiedNo data found WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. Health-care professionals who claim conscientious objection must refer the woman to another willing and trained provider in the same, or another easily accessible health-care facility. Where referral is not possible, the health-care professional who objects, must provide safe abortion to save the woman’s life, to prevent serious injury to her health and provide urgent care when women present with complications from an unsafe or illegal abortion. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.2.5.
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No data
Neither Type of Provider PermittedNo data found WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. Health-care professionals who claim conscientious objection must refer the woman to another willing and trained provider in the same, or another easily accessible health-care facility. Where referral is not possible, the health-care professional who objects, must provide safe abortion to save the woman’s life, to prevent serious injury to her health and provide urgent care when women present with complications from an unsafe or illegal abortion. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.2.5.
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No data
Public facilitiesNo data found WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. The respect, protection and fulfilment of human rights require that governments ensure abortion services, that are allowable by law, are accessible in practice. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.2.5.
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No data
Private facilitiesNo data found WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. The respect, protection and fulfilment of human rights require that governments ensure abortion services, that are allowable by law, are accessible in practice. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.2.5.
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No data
Facility type not specifiedNo data found WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. The respect, protection and fulfilment of human rights require that governments ensure abortion services, that are allowable by law, are accessible in practice. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.2.5.
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No data
Neither Type of Facility PermittedNo data found WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. The respect, protection and fulfilment of human rights require that governments ensure abortion services, that are allowable by law, are accessible in practice. Safe Abortion Guidelines, § 4.2.2.5.
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Concluding Observations issued by respective treaty bodies and selected extracts related to abortion.
| Country | CAT |
CEDAW |
CERD |
CESCR |
CRC |
CRPD |
HRC |
IE HAIT |
SR HEALTH |
SR TORTURE |
SR VAW |
WG-DWLP |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Holy See / Vatican City State |
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CRC"The Committee expresses its deepest concern that in the case of a nine-year old girl in Brazil who underwent an emergency life-saving abortion in 2009 after she had been raped by her stepfather, an Archbishop of Pernambuco, Brazil, sanctioned the mother of the girl as well as the doctor who performed the abortion. The sanction was later approved by the head of the Congregation for Bishops of the Roman Catholic Church. The Committee urges the Holy See to review its position on abortion, which places obvious risks on the life and health of pregnant girls, and to amend Canon 1398 relating to abortion with a view to identifying circumstances under which access to abortion services may be permitted. (…) The Committee is seriously concerned about the negative consequences of the Holy See’s position and practice of denying adolescents access to contraception and to sexual and reproductive health and information. With reference to its general comment No. 15 (2013) on the right of the child to the enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of health, No. 4 (2003) on adolescent health and No. 3 (2003) on HIV/AIDS and the rights of the child, the Committee reminds the Holy See of the dangers of early and unwanted pregnancy and clandestine abortion which result, notably, in high maternal morbidity and mortality for adolescent girls and the particular risk for adolescents girls and boys of being infected with and affected by sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) , including HIV/AIDs. (…)”
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Country specific information regarding abortion related penalties. Information regarding penalties has been presented in English only; this information is not based on an official translation. Please review the source documents provided.
| Country | Penalties deconstructed |
Penalties for woman |
Penalties for provider |
Penalties for person who assists |
Secondary additional considerations/judicial discretion |
Penalties for non-consensual abortion and or negligence |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Holy See (Holy See / Vatican City State) |
Penalties deconstructedNo legal grounds specified; penalties for all abortions |
PenaltiesCode of Canon Law Title VI. (Delicts against human life and freedom) Canon 1398: A person who procures a completed abortion incurs a late sententiae excommunication. WHO GuidanceThe following descriptions and recommendations were extracted from WHO guidance on safe abortion. International, regional and national human rights bodies and courts increasingly recommend decriminalization of abortion, and provision of abortion care, to protect a woman’s life and health, and in cases of rape, based on a woman’s complaint. Safe Abortion Guidelines, p 97.
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PenaltiesNone found |
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