By Memory Pamella Kadau
Introduction
The discourse surrounding abortion remains a contentious and divisive topic worldwide, and Zimbabwe is no exception to the complexities that surround it. Recognising that the decision to undergo an abortion is deeply personal and multifaceted, individuals navigate this choice for various reasons. The subject is often marred by misinformation, disinformation, and pervasive stigma, posing significant hurdles for those seeking safe and reproductive healthcare. The social media space in Zimbabwe has become toxic toward young girls and women who undergo abortions. This editorial delves into the imperative of addressing abortion stigma online in Zimbabwe within a feminist framework, aiming to cultivate a more compassionate and understanding society.
Despite legislation permitting abortion only in cases of saving a person’s life, instances of rape/incest, and foetal abnormalities, persistent stigma continues to isolate and marginalise those who have undergone abortions, obstructing comprehensive discussions on sexual and reproductive health rights. This article advocates for dismantling post-abortion stigma online, highlighting the societal judgment, condemnation, and limited emotional support faced by individuals associated with abortions. Unchecked stigma detrimentally affects mental health, inducing guilt, shame, and feelings of isolation. By actively confronting post-abortion stigma, we endeavour to foster a more empathetic and inclusive society that honours the reproductive choices of all individuals, ultimately contributing to the preservation of lives.
Addressing Misinformation and Disinformation online
The internet has revolutionised communication, information sharing, and accessibility, transcending boundaries and connecting people with the click of a button. However, its dark side lies in its capacity to amplify voices of judgment, perpetuate misinformation, and rapidly spread harmful narratives. It has become a battleground of polarised opinions, lacking room for nuanced dialogue or empathy. Regrettably, the pregnant woman is often reduced to a voiceless vessel, devoid of agency and choice. Women who undergo both safe and unsafe abortions become targets of online harassment, trolling, and name-calling.
Despite these challenges, there is hope. The internet offers an opportunity to establish safe spaces for discussing abortion and challenging associated stigma. Online platforms enable individuals to share their stories, engage in dialogue, and find support networks without fear of judgment or retribution. Confronting abortion stigma online necessitates addressing the rampant misinformation circulating on various platforms. Misleading claims about the risks, legality, and morality of abortion not only perpetuates stigma, but also jeopardise the lives and well-being of those seeking accurate information and safe reproductive healthcare. Initiatives should focus on promoting evidence-based discussions, sharing reliable resources, and fostering respectful conversations to enhance knowledge and understanding. Access to information on laws and services empowers individuals to make informed decisions and challenge societal biases. Efforts in this direction contribute to dismantling stigma and promoting a more compassionate online discourse.
Encouraging empathy and support
Engaging in this challenging conversation requires a non-judgmental approach. Notably, Zimbabwe has achieved commendable progress in maternal health, as reported by the World Health Organization (WHO). The maternal mortality rate has decreased from 651 per 100,000 live births in 2015 (ZDHS) to 462 per 100,000 live births in 2019 (MICS). Despite this improvement, the current rate remains unacceptably high, with abortion emerging as a significant contributor to maternal deaths. Data from 2018 reveals that abortion-related maternal deaths constituted 25 percent of all maternal deaths, and in 2016, an estimated 65,300 induced abortions took place in Zimbabwe, equating to 17 abortions per 1,000 women aged 15–49. However, only 39 percent of these cases (25,200) received facility-based post-abortion care. This concerning situation is largely attributed to restrictive abortion laws, which permit the procedure only in cases of rape, incest, or when the life of the baby and/or woman is at risk. Furthermore, there is limited understanding of the current state of post-abortion care services in Zimbabwe. Addressing these issues requires a nuanced and informed dialogue to improve maternal health outcomes in the country.
How can we safeguard these lives and recognise the multitude of reasons behind women’s decisions to continue their pregnancies? Factors contributing to such choices encompass contraceptive failure, instances of rape, incest, social and economic conditions, health concerns, unfavourable timing, career and educational considerations, relocation, humanitarian crises, and lack of support. Delving into the motivations behind individuals resorting to unsafe backyard abortions is crucial. Elevating these narratives and amplifying the voices and experiences of those directly affected is essential. Through the sharing of personal stories and perspectives, we humanise the issue, dispel stereotypes, and cultivate empathy. Rather than resorting to judgment and condemnation, the key to saving lives lies in a collaborative effort to challenge detrimental narratives, promote accurate information, and foster compassion and understanding.
Participating in respectful dialogue, amplifying diverse voices, and building supportive online communities can address the stigma. This approach empowers individuals to make informed choices, working towards a society that respects and upholds reproductive justice. It is imperative to shift from judgment to empathy and eradicate the stigma surrounding abortion within Zimbabwe’s online discourse. Discussions on post-abortion experiences online should strive to nurture empathy, understanding, and support. Society must acknowledge that the decision to have an abortion is deeply personal, often influenced by intricate circumstances.
Way Forward: Promoting Comprehensive Sexual Education, Services and Legal Reform
A critical step in dismantling abortion stigma involves championing comprehensive sexual education that covers not only basic reproductive rights but also delves into contraception, safe abortion options, and the imperative need for legal reform. Equipping individuals with accurate knowledge and understanding not only empowers them to make informed decisions regarding their reproductive health but also plays a pivotal role in diminishing unintended pregnancies. This, in turn, contributes to the cultivation of a society that is more open, accepting, and respectful of diverse reproductive choices.
Legislators and policymakers bear the responsibility of reassessing and revising restrictive abortion laws to guarantee the provision of safe and accessible abortion services. In tandem, online initiatives should concentrate on mobilising public support for legal changes, emphasising comprehensive reproductive rights that extend to the crucial domain of safe and legal abortion. Confronting post-abortion stigma in the online sphere within Zimbabwe is not only an essential means of supporting individuals who have undergone abortion but also serves as a catalyst for broader discussions on reproductive health rights.
