In a milestone move, France has become the first country in the entire World to explicitly include the right to abortion in its constitution. Following the historic vote, the Eiffel Tower in Paris illuminated in celebration, displaying the message: “My Body My Choice.”
Parliamentarians overwhelmingly voted to revise the country’s 1958 constitution, affirming women’s “guaranteed freedom” to choose abortion.
President Emmanuel Macron described the move as “French Pride” that had sent a “Universal message”.
The historic move, marked by a resounding 780-72 vote in favour, was met with a standing ovation in the parliament in Versailles.
While abortion has been legal in France since 1975, the constitutional amendment solidifies and protects this right. Surveys indicate overwhelming public support, with approximately 85% of the population favouring the constitutional amendment to safeguard abortion rights.
Unlike other countries where reproductive rights are implicit, France’s amendment explicitly guarantees access to abortion, setting a precedent globally. This amendment marks the 25th revision to modern France’s founding document, the first since 2008.
Prime Minister Gabriel Attal, before the vote, underscored the importance of protecting abortion rights, acknowledging that the right to abortion remained “in danger” and “at the mercy of decision-makers.” He reiterated the message to all women that their bodies belong to them, emphasising individual autonomy in decision-making.
The move represents a significant step forward in safeguarding reproductive rights and ensuring women’s autonomy over their bodies, setting a precedent for other nations to follow suit.
