Doctors for Life said in a statement that it shares the grave concerns that numerous prominent academics have recently expressed in their position paper about the legal amendment to the abortion law being proposed by the government.
Doctors for Life believes that the wording as proposed by the government will be loosely interpreted to allow for abortion on demand, the association said in a statement. The text contained in the government’s amendment that specifically allows for the termination of a pregnancy where there may be a threat to a woman's health is of particular concern.
This terminology is too vague and unfortunately has led to the introduction of abortion on demand in numerous countries, starting from the UK in 1967. This is due to the holistic definition of the word ‘health’, which encompasses mental health and wellbeing.
Recent pronouncements by the prime minister place the onus of interpretation of this loosely-worded law on the individual doctor caring for the woman. This would transfer the burden of responsibility to the doctor, potentially making them a scapegoat in high-profile cases brought forward by pro-choice advocacy groups or individuals.
WWe are therefore fully endorsing the academics’ proposed amendment that reads as follows: No crime is committed under article 241(2) or article 243 when the death or bodily harm of an unborn child results from a medical intervention conducted with the aim of saving the life of the mother where there is a real and substantial risk of loss of the mother’s life from a physical illness. To this end, DfL has reached out to doctors to give them the opportunity to endorse the legal amendment proposed by the academics.
Endorsements are rapidly flowing in and more than 450 doctors have already endorsed the alternative proposal.
In the U.K. the vast majority (over 98%) of abortions are performed for mental health reasons. So it is entirely justified that these 450 doctors are concerned that, if the government proceeds with the amendment in its current form, abortion on demand would soon become a reality in Malta.
DfL affirms the paramount importance of providing excellent psychiatric care to all pregnant women suffering from mental health issues. Fortunately, current psychiatric medications include several options that are relatively safe in pregnancy, and local specialists provide an excellent peri-natal mental health service ensuring a high level of care for pregnant women.
Women facing a crisis pregnancy also require comprehensive psychological, social and financial support that addresses their needs holistically. DfL strongly urges the government not to confuse abortion with psychiatric care or community support. If the government’s intention is to protect a woman’s life and to provide peace of mind to the doctors caring for her, there should be no impediment for the academics’ clause to be adopted and implemented.
DfL is calling on the general public to sign the petition on salvani.eu endorsing the academics’ amendment and join over 19,000 concerned citizens who have already done so. DfL is also calling on the general public to make their voice heard at the National Protest being held this Sunday 4th December at 3pm, in Castille Square, Valletta.