Access to healthcare and reproductive care is a fundamental human right, but women around the world continue to face severe barriers to these rights. In Germany, legal reforms and measures have not gone far enough in increasing women's access to reproductive care and self-determination. It is time for a reconsideration of the legal framework around reproductive self-determination.
One area that requires urgent attention is the criminalization of abortions after the 12th week of pregnancy. The Commission on reproductive and sexual rights has a mandate to cover abortion, and it is essential to determine to what extent and how this mandate will be fulfilled. The government has not been able to agree on removing the ban on abortions from the criminal code, but there is a policy agreement to remove the ban on advertising abortion services and to allow medical practitioners to use the term "pregnancy termination" without being criminalized.
Medical training is another area that requires attention. Currently, only 12 out of 22 medical training programs cover abortion, and the Federal Medical Chamber is working on an additional education plan to specify the documentation further. Abortion medication can only be used up to the 63rd day of pregnancy, and there are difficulties in obtaining it. The number of abortion providers is decreasing, and there are issues with late abortions and counseling. It is essential to provide for more early abortions and establish cooperation agreements to provide follow-up care.
Contraception coverage is limited to those under the age of 22, and costs remain unaffordable for many women, including those with disabilities, undocumented migrants, refugees, drug users, HIV/AIDS, and sex workers. It is crucial to ensure access to all women by repealing section 87 and providing care for undocumented migrants without the risk of reporting. Sanctions against anti-choice harassment are necessary, and extraterritoriality must be supported to ensure access to COVID-19 diagnostics.
It is time for Germany to take action to increase women's access to healthcare and reproductive care. This includes reforms to the legal framework, improvements to medical training, and increased access to contraception and abortion services. Women have the right to self-determination, and it is time for Germany to prioritize their health and well-being.
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