Brussels – European Commissioner for Equality, Hadja Lahbib, emphasized that preventing unsafe abortions is a crucial public health concern during a debate in the European Parliament regarding the citizens’ initiative “My Voice, My Choice,” aimed at ensuring safe and accessible abortion across the EU. The initiative’s coordinator, Nika Kovač, urged for collective action and solidarity.
Lahbib stated, “Your initiative conveys a significant message. Preventing unsafe abortions is undoubtedly a matter of public health.” She acknowledged the need to tackle this issue, questioning the methods and levels at which it should be addressed.
While the Commission has yet to formalize its stance on the initiative, Lahbib noted that its reply would consider the restrictions on the EU’s health competencies. She referenced Article 168 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the EU, which declares that healthcare, including sexual and reproductive health, falls under the jurisdiction of member states.
Kovač, director of the Slovenian NGO Inštitut 8. marec, pointed out that although the EU cannot influence national laws directly, it has a responsibility to safeguard its citizens when national regulations pose threats to their safety. She advocated for the establishment of a financial mechanism that would allow women from regions lacking safe abortion options to travel to areas where such procedures are accessible and secure.
“I urge you, members of the European Parliament and those in power, to demonstrate unity, take responsibility, and act,” she implored in her opening remarks, which were followed by questions from MEPs.
After nearly three hours of discussions with FEMM members and other parliamentary committees, Kovač deemed the Commissioner’s response “extremely positive,” expressing optimism for Brussels’ support for their proposal.
In two weeks, MEPs will address the initiative for safe and accessible abortion in the EU at a plenary session in Strasbourg, where a vote on a related resolution is also planned. The Commission has until early March 2026 to respond to the initiative. (2 December)
Leave a Reply