Archive · 17 Dec 2025
EU Votes on Abortion Access Scheme
The European Parliament voted on a plan called 'My Voice, My Choice' to use EU money to help women from countries where abortion is very restricted or hard to get.
These countries include Malta, Poland, Italy, and Croatia.
The plan would pay for women to have abortions in other EU countries where it's legal and easier to access.
People who support this plan say it will make things safer and fairer for women.
But some people who are against it say it goes against their countries' laws and their beliefs.
The vote passed with 358 votes for and 202 against.
Now, the European Commission will decide by March if they will make it official.
Some groups that are against abortion have been trying to stop this plan by holding events and talking about supporting mothers instead.
EU Parliament voted 358 for and 202 against the 'My Voice, My Choice' initiative to fund abortion access for women from restrictive countries.
Proponents argue it will reduce unsafe practices and help women lacking funds for procedures abroad.
Critics, including far-right and some centre-right MEPs, say it interferes with national laws and traditional Christian values.
Vote was advisory, but the European Commission will decide by March whether to adopt the proposal.
Opponent groups, such as One of Us and the European Centre for Law and Justice, have organized events against the proposal.
- Who
- European Parliament, abortion rights campaigners, far-right and centre-right MEPs
- What
- Vote on a scheme to fund abortion procedures for women from countries with restrictions
- When
- Wednesday, December 17; decision by March
- Where
- European Parliament in Strasbourg
- Why
- To reduce unsafe practices and help women lacking funds for procedures abroad
Proponents
Critics
Purpose of the Initiative
Proponents
Proponents argue it will reduce unsafe practices and help women lacking funds for procedures abroad.
Critics
Critics say it interferes with national laws and traditional Christian values.
Impact on National Sovereignty
Proponents
Proponents believe it supports gender equality and human rights.
Critics
Critics view it as an attack on national order and an ideological abuse of power.
- Initiative Name
- My Voice, My Choice
- Proposed Fund Source
- EU budget
- Target Countries
- Malta, Poland, Italy, Croatia
- Vote Location
- European Parliament in Strasbourg
- Vote Outcome
- 358 for, 202 against
- Decision Deadline
- March (European Commission)
- Opponent Groups
- One of Us, European Centre for Law and Justice
- Proponent Groups
- Abortion rights campaigners, left to centre-right MEPs