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The EU abortion travel fund gained strong backing after a key vote in the European Parliament on Wednesday. Lawmakers supported a citizen-led plan that helps women travel abroad for abortion care without cost. The proposal targets women from countries with strict abortion laws or limited access. Supporters say the plan protects health, dignity, and basic rights across the European Union.
The initiative, called My Voice, My Choice, proposes a dedicated fund from the EU budget. The fund would cover abortion procedures in other member states. It would mainly support women from Malta and Poland, where bans remain severe. It would also help women in Italy and Croatia, where access remains difficult.
Strong Vote Signals Political Momentum
Members of Parliament voted 358 in favor and 202 against the proposal. The European Commission will decide in March whether to adopt it. The vote remains advisory but carries political weight under EU rules. Past citizen initiatives have influenced policy, though not all succeeded.
Supporters argue the EU abortion travel fund could reduce unsafe abortions. They also say it helps women who lack money for care abroad. Lawmakers from left to center-right parties backed the plan. They framed it as a public health and equality measure.
Growing Divide Over Abortion Rights
Abortion access has expanded across much of Europe in recent years. France enshrined abortion rights in its constitution. The United Kingdom recently decriminalized abortion. However, far-right parties have gained support across several EU states. Many of those parties oppose abortion on moral or religious grounds.
Critics say the proposal interferes with national sovereignty. They also argue it clashes with traditional Christian values. Several center-right lawmakers joined far-right groups in opposition.
Reactions From Poland and Beyond
Polish abortion rights activists welcomed the vote. They said it could save lives and reduce medical risks. Poland outlawed abortion in almost all cases in 2021. Lawyer Mateusz Bieżuński praised the move as protective for women.
Opponents reacted with sharp criticism. Jerzy Kwasniewski from Ordo Iuris called the vote anti-European. He expects the Commission to reject the plan. Anti-abortion groups staged events before the vote.
Cultural Battle Continues
The European Centre for Law and Justice also criticized the outcome. Its director, Gregor Puppinck, called the issue a cultural battle. He linked the debate to global abortion politics. The group previously supported the U.S. challenge to Roe v. Wade.
Despite resistance, supporters see momentum. They say Europe must ensure equal rights across borders. The Commission decision will shape the next phase of the debate.
