Demonstrations to defend the right to abortion bring together hundreds of people in several cities in France

The mobilization was organized on the occasion of the international day dedicated to this right and the call of the collective “Abortion in Europe, women decide”.

“The right to choose is vital.” Six months after the inclusion of abortion in the Constitution, hundreds of people demonstrated in several French cities to defend the right to abortion on Saturday September 28. On the occasion of the international day dedicated to this right, which is hampered, or even non-existent, in certain countries, the procession set off to Paris, at the call of the collective Abortion in Europe, women decide, which brings together feminist associations and unions.

The rally in Toulouse, bringing together several hundred people brandishing slogans such as “Abortion penalized, women sacrificed” Or “My body, my choice”was joined by the environmentalist MP Sandrine Rousseau. “We see that there are plenty of countries in which abortion rights are declining because with the rise of the extreme right, abortion rights are declining”she told AFP.

This manifestation signifies “that we are aware of the fact that it is a right that can be called into question at any time and that we will not give up”warned the MP, noting the entry into the government of Michel Barnier of “rare deputies and senators” Who “voted against the constitutionalization of abortion”such as Annie Genevard and Bruno Retailleau. Prime Minister Michel Barnier assured that the “acquired rights”particularly in matters of abortion, would be “completely preserved”.

In Lille (North), where around 150 people demonstrated, the “resignation of parliamentarians who voted against abortion in the Constitution” in March was requested during the speeches. “You don’t want me to abort so castrate yourself.”Or “The right to choose is vital”proclaimed several signs.

According to official figures, 243,623 abortions were recorded in France in 2023, 8,600 more than in 2022. But for feminist associations and in the eyes of 89% of French people, obstacles persist, particularly in terms of structures and deadlines, according to an Ifop barometer published by Family Planning.