The Cana Movement, while referring to recent official declarations relating to the legalisation of the Morning After Pill (MAP), firmly believes that the debate in respect of the MAP should be guided by scientific findings and full respect of human rights.

In a statement, the Catholic group said the fundamental right to life tops the hierarchy of rights which exists in any legal system. Accordingly whilst the Cana Movement is fully in favour of women’s dignity, civil and reproductive rights these do not prevail over the fundamental right to life nor do they justify breach of the right to life.

Life starts from the moment of conception. A morning after pill which prevents ovulation and/or fertilisation is a contraceptive, a morning after pill which interrupts life after conception is an abortifacient.

Life should be protected and treated with dignity as from the moment of conception. Accordingly use of the morning after pill in circumstances where it interrupts life is abortive and should not be legalised. Governments and legislators are urged to protect life, the movement said.