With the many decades long battle in the United States over women’s rights and abortion laws, it’s easy to forget how strict and oppressive other countries can be on the matter. The controversial subject of abortion is a constant source of contention in many countries. In which countries is abortion illegal?
Not all of the countries that have outlawed abortion have completely disregarded a woman’s health. Many of these countries offer abortions for women who would otherwise die in childbirth. However, in order to get the lifesaving abortion, it often has to be approved by a committee of conservative medical professionals.
This list features all the countries that have outlawed abortion, some without exception and some allowing for it only in life saving scenarios.
Since 1982, a person who performs and/or has an abortion is subject to 5 to 15 years prison time. Abortion is permitted to save a woman's life. see more on Congo
Abortion is only allowed in Gabon if it will save a woman's life. Otherwise, it is subject to many years in prison. see more on Gabon
In Guinea-Bissau, abortion can only be performed if it will save a woman's life. Without medical permission, a woman who gets an abortion may serve at least 5 years in prison. see more on Guinea-Bissau