Large majority of CSV supports constitutional protection for abortion

An overwhelming majority of the body supported the idea that the Constitution should state that a woman has the freedom to terminate her pregnancy, under the conditions already laid down by law.

The CSV emphasised that this position demonstrates its clear commitment to women's rights and freedom of choice. The party added that it will work with its coalition partner – the Democratic Party (DP) – and other political groups represented in parliament to build the broadest possible consensus around the text, so that the future constitutional guarantee enjoys the strongest legitimacy.

According to participants, the debate was at times very emotional. Co-secretary general Françoise Kemp described the meeting as constructive, noting that it was particularly valuable that many women shared their personal experiences, which made the discussion more meaningful and fruitful.

In recent weeks, there has been public discussion about whether there is a legal distinction between the terms "freedom" and "right". Kemp confirmed that she believes there is a difference: using the term "freedom" ensures that doctors who do not wish to perform abortions can continue to refer women to colleagues who are willing. She added that this already happens in practice, as doctors know which of their peers are prepared to carry out the procedure and which are not, and therefore nothing will change in this respect if the term "freedom" is adopted.

The next step is to draft the definitive legislative proposal, which will then need to pass through the Council of State. With regard to internal disagreements in the coalition partner DP on the issue, Kemp stressed that constructive talks will now be essential.

Cardinal Jean-Claude Hollerich, Archbishop of Luxembourg, had recently insisted in conversation with RTL that abortion should never be enshrined in the Constitution. The Catholic Church reiterated this position at the end of last week.

© Marc Hoscheid