In a statement on Saturday, Chilean President Gabriel Boric announced plans to propose a new “free abortion” law in the second half of the year. Boric emphasized the importance of women’s right to make their own decisions about their reproductive health, despite opposition from some male parliamentarians.
The announcement received criticism from right-wing parliamentarians who are in the majority in Congress. The debate over expanding abortion rights and approving free abortion has been ongoing, with the Chilean right being opposed to such measures. Previous attempts to introduce free abortion, such as a proposed amendment to the Constitution in 2022, were rejected by the public.
However, Boric remains committed to presenting a bill on legal abortion later this year. The government is currently working on improving the application of existing laws and ensuring that people have access to their legal options without barriers. Chile decriminalized abortion in 2017 under former president Michelle Bachelet, allowing for voluntary termination of pregnancy under certain circumstances.
Despite divided opinions within Chilean society, Boric’s commitment to sexual and reproductive rights continues to be a contentious issue in the country.
