Brazil Votes to Restrict Abortion Access for Underage Rape Survivors

Brazilian lawmakers have approved a measure to make it harder for minors who experience sexual violence to obtain an abortion. The change overturns a National Council for the Rights of Children and Adolescents resolution that allowed underage victims to seek free legal support and medical care without parental consent. Senator Damares Alves argued the previous rule stripped parents and guardians of their authority in deciding on a girl’s care after sexual assault. Under Brazil’s penal code, abortion is illegal except in cases of rape, risk to the mother’s life, or severe foetal disability. The reform now moves to a final vote in Congress, where allies of former president Jair Bolsonaro hold sway.

Use The App To Win ₦1m

Stories are shared by community members. This article does not represent the official view of NaijaWorld — the author is solely responsible for its content.