International Safe Abortion Day was observed by women’s rights activists worldwide, but in Russia, it highlighted the government’s regression in abortion policies, restricting access to safe procedures for many women. The Far East Primorye region became the 11th in Russia to outlaw coercion into abortion, and the State Duma is considering a bill to penalize the “childfree movement.”
While on paper, Russia maintains liberal abortion laws, in reality, accessing abortion care has become increasingly challenging due to obstacles like mandatory waiting periods and counseling aimed at dissuading women from the procedure. Private clinics across Russia have stopped offering abortion services, backed by the Russian Orthodox Church’s push for a complete ban on abortions.
Women’s rights advocates express concerns about the impact of stricter laws, emphasizing the importance of solidarity and safe access to abortion to prevent higher female mortality rates. The anonymous feminist activist calls for support in ensuring women’s rights amidst the changing landscape of reproductive healthcare in Russia.