(January 7, 2014 at 11:09 pm)Justtristo Wrote: I fully support the current abortion laws in my state (Victoria), where it is legal up until birth. Also our politicians aren't considering changing it anytime soon.Hmmm, uncertain of the implications here. I hope that's not 'elective' abortions! I was under the impression that Australia was similar to the UK. Am I wrong?
In the UK, it's illegal to have an elective abortion after 24 weeks. After that, it's only legal to have an abortion under very specific circumstances (e.g. if medically necessary to save the life of the mother) and even then only after signifcant consultation. This is because our law recognises the development and the medical viability of the foetus: certain physical attributes are present by the 24th week which mean the foetus is considered alive and current medical technology means that those born prematurely are highly likely to survive from 24 weeks onwards. That recognition is used as a balance between the 'rights to life' of the unborn child and the mother's rights of self-determination. This legal framework is suported via the NHS and other related healthcare schemes to make sure that advice & support are readily available for any woman/couple facing circumstances which might result in an abortion (e.g. practical advice, counselling etc.). There's also pretty good sex-ed and NHS schemes like free condoms which work on the 'preventative' end of the issue..
Although there are problems with funding for these services under the Tories, it's still one of the most well thought-through approaches to abortion in the world. Having been through the process myself, I can tell you from experience how important it was for both my partner & I (but mainly her) to have the advice & support.
Sum ergo sum
