By Memory Pamella Kadau
Recently, the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom (UK), Rishi Sunak, declared that ‘women are women and men are men.’ His comments added further controversy to the ongoing debate on gender equality and the rights of transgender individuals. However, this also presents an opportunity to interrogate issues related to gender equality, particularly on abortion. After all, the ability to control one’s body has been historically denied to women, for example, the right to when and not to have a child.
Abortion, the termination of a pregnancy, has long been a contentious and polarising issue worldwide. Beyond the medical and ethical dimensions, abortion intersects with broader socio-political contexts, particularly those concerning gender equality. The ability to decide about one’s reproductive health, including whether to continue or terminate a pregnancy, is intertwined with the fundamental principles of autonomy, bodily integrity, and gender justice.
This article will critically examine the multifaceted relationship between abortion and gender equality. It will begin by providing historical context and the evolution of abortion laws and regulations. It will then discuss the impact of restrictive abortion policies on women’s rights and gender disparities. Furthermore, this Oped will explore the global disparities in abortion access and their disproportionate impact on marginalised communities. Finally, it will emphasise recognising abortion as essential to gender equality and reproductive justice.
Historical Context and Legal Frameworks
The regulation of abortion has a long history marked by changing societal norms, medical advancements, and evolving legal frameworks. Abortion was often practised and accepted, with regulations emerging in the 19th century as medical professionals sought to establish control over reproductive procedures (Reagan, 1997).
In many countries, including Zimbabwe, abortion laws have been influenced by societal attitudes toward gender roles and sexuality. In conservative societies, restrictive abortion laws often reflect traditional patriarchal values, limiting women’s autonomy over their bodies (Hoggart et al., 2020). However, the past century has seen significant shifts in legal attitudes toward abortion.
- Legalisation of Abortion: In several countries, abortion has been legalised to varying degrees, often due to the recognition of women’s rights and the acknowledgement of the dangers posed by unsafe, clandestine abortions (Drower, 2019). For example, the United States landmark case of Roe v. Wade in 1973 established a woman’s right to choose abortion as an essential component of reproductive autonomy. Sadly, this was reversed by the Supreme Court in 2022. However, most State legislatures in that country are legalising access to abortion.
- Restrictive Abortion Laws: Some countries continue to uphold restrictive abortion laws influenced by conservative religious and societal values. These laws limit access to safe abortion services and, in many cases, disproportionately affect women and marginalised communities (Duvall et al., 2017). Zimbabwe’s Termination of Pregnancy Act is an example of a restrictive law as it provides abortion in very few cases. Other countries have entirely banned abortion and imposed stiff sentences on women who terminate pregnancy.
Impact of Restrictive Abortion Policies on Gender Equality
Restrictive abortion policies often have profound implications for gender equality. They can exacerbate existing disparities and reinforce traditional gender roles and power dynamics. Here are some examples in which restrictive abortion policies adversely impact gender equality:
- Bodily Autonomy: Access to safe and legal abortion is fundamental to bodily autonomy, enabling individuals to decide about their bodies. Women’s autonomy is compromised when such access is restricted, reinforcing gender inequality and traditional oppression.
- Healthcare Disparities: Women’s health is negatively affected when denied access to safe abortion services. Restrictive policies can increase maternal mortality and morbidity rates, disproportionately impacting marginalised communities like rural areas, farming communities and informal settlements.
- Economic Inequality: Forced pregnancies, particularly for low-income women, can have economic consequences. Women may be forced to forgo education and career opportunities, perpetuating economic disparities between genders and trapping them in a cycle of poverty.
- Gender-Based Violence: Restrictive abortion laws can exacerbate gender-based violence, as women may be coerced into continuing unwanted pregnancies or face violence for seeking abortions. This results in many women living in abusive relationships and having no recourse because they depend on their abuser for livelihood and income.
- Stigmatisation: The stigmatisation of abortion can contribute to the perpetuation of gender stereotypes and the marginalisation of women who seek abortions. This stigma reinforces societal norms that devalue women’s reproductive autonomy and entrench gender equality.
- Reproductive Justice: Research shows that reproductive justice, which extends beyond reproductive rights to social, economic, and political factors, is essential for gender equality. Restrictive abortion policies can undermine reproductive justice by limiting access to comprehensive reproductive healthcare based on one’s gender.
