The Malta Women's Lobby on Tuesday called for a broad, cross-party forum where the issue of decriminalising abortion can be discussed respectfully and transparently with diverse expertise and perspectives: medical, legal, ethical, and social.
This would serve as a national platform with the aim to pursue solutions that uphold human dignity, strengthen support for women and families and expand life-affirming support options, including perinatal mental healthcare, domestic violence pathways, financial assistance, workplace protections, and adoption and parenting support without the fear of incarceration, the group said.
The Malta Women's Lobby recognises that many people in Malta hold deep convictions about protecting life. While acknowledging and honouring this profound value, we are also in touch with the realities so many women face when caught in situations involving an unexpected or crisis pregnancy. We witness the harsh consequences and distress this often has on their life. For this reason, as a lobby, we advocate for compassion, rather than throwing the first stone, the group said.
It is possible to be morally opposed to abortion and be committed to protecting life while also conceding that criminal penalties for women are not an appropriate way forward in addressing complex personal and healthcare realities after an abortion has occurred. This approach does not require endorsing abortion; it focuses on reducing harm and prioritising support and prevention of crisis situations in dire situations.
On this matter "we note the recent comments by the Leader of the Opposition, Dr Alex Borg, who suggested that whether a woman should face imprisonment ought to be assessed on a case-by-case basis. Relying on discretionary leniency risks creating unequal outcomes and uncertainty for women, families, and professionals involved".
"We also note remarks by the Prime Minister, Dr Robert Abela, suggesting that harm may be reduced through measures such as conditional discharges or suspended sentences. The lobby reiterates that, even if imprisonment will be avoided, the prospect of criminal proceedings in court can be deeply distressing, bringing fear, harm, and lasting personal consequences, particularly for women already navigating a difficult situation."
Instead of the proposed solutions, the MWL called for a response centred on support rather than punishment. This is more humane and more effective than criminal sanctions against women. And the reality is that laws cannot eliminate abortion. On the contrary, the fear of prosecution often drives these decisions into secrecy, making it harder for women to seek timely medical advice, counselling, or aftercare.
"We reiterate that support should be central, ensuring that anyone who experiences a medical emergency related to a termination can seek hospital care immediately and without fear, and that compassionate, confidential, non-judgmental counselling is available afterwards for those who need it," the group said.