Thousands demonstrated across Poland on Thursday in support of abortion rights, with gatherings in the capital Warsaw and over 20 other cities.
Abortion in Poland is permitted only in specific cases: when the pregnancy results from rape or incest, or if the mother’s life is at risk. As a result, many procedures are conducted clandestinely.
Protesters displayed placards with slogans like “Women’s hell continues” and “Men of quality don’t fear equality.”
Prime Minister Donald Tusk, who took office in 2023, promised to review abortion restrictions. However, internal disputes within his coalition have stalled legal changes, leading activists to accuse the government of failing to fulfil its promises.
Abortion has been legal in Poland since 1993, but only in limited circumstances. Under the conservative Law and Justice (PiS) government in 2020, laws were further tightened, banning abortions in cases of fetal abnormalities.
Activists claim that tens of thousands of abortions are performed outside of hospitals annually. While women seeking secret abortions do not face criminal charges, those assisting them, such as doctors or family members, risk prosecution and possible imprisonment of up to three years.
The demonstrations occurred shortly after Poland’s parliament passed two bills aimed at easing abortion restrictions, which are expected to be vetoed by President Karol Nawrocki, an ally of the conservative opposition.
Kinga Jelinska, director of the Women Help Women Foundation, described the proposed changes as mere “breadcrumbs.” Activists argue that these actions, taken just before upcoming parliamentary elections, are intended to garner support from women voters without any serious intent to reform the law.
