Hungary eases abortion rules as Peter Magyar announces wave of women’s rights reforms
Changes to abortion access
The government plans to roll back a controversial abortion rule, Magyar said on Thursday. Doctors and women’s rights groups have criticised and protested against the existing procedure, describing it as “cruel” and “humiliating.” Women will also be able to obtain emergency contraception without a prescription under the proposed changes. Magyar said the government would take steps to address menstrual poverty.
Measures against violence
Magyar described the proposals as a broad effort to combat violence against women and protect their safety and dignity. Misuse of intimate images would become a criminal offence, while domestic violence victims would receive special treatment during criminal proceedings.
Political backdrop
Magyar announced the plans in a Facebook video on Thursday. He claimed a historic election victory in April, removing Viktor Orban after 16 years in power. The article describes Orban as an ally of Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin.
Key points
- Hungary plans to reverse a controversial abortion rule and ease access to emergency contraception.
- Magyar’s package includes protections for domestic violence victims and criminal penalties for misuse of intimate images.
- The government plans to ratify the Istanbul Convention and address menstrual poverty.
- Doctors and women’s rights groups have protested the existing abortion procedure.