Reproductive Autonomy And The Right To Choose: Decriminalizing Termination Of Pregnancy
- IJLLR Journal
- Jul 29
- 1 min read
Dr. U Deepti, Associate Professor, Department of Law, Bharata Mata School of Legal Studies, Aluva, Kerala, India
Arjun Raj, Assistant Professor, Department of Law, Bharata Mata School of Legal Studies, Aluva, Kerala, India
ABSTRACT
Bodily autonomy is a core human right vital to women’s reproductive freedom and equality. This article examines decriminalization of termination of pregnancy as essential to reproductive autonomy, health, and dignity. It reviews international norms, including WHO guidelines and CEDAW, affirming the right to safe, legal abortion. Through key court rulings in South Africa, India, and elsewhere, the paper highlights growing legal recognition of reproductive rights as linked to privacy and equality. Despite progress, restrictive abortion laws remain widespread, disproportionately harming marginalized women. Recent legislative reforms in countries like India and New Zealand reflect a shift towards treating abortion as a healthcare matter rather than a crime. The article concludes that decriminalization is crucial for reproductive justice, requiring legal, judicial, and social efforts to ensure safe, stigma-free access to abortion.
