Whakamihi! – New Zealand decriminalises abortion after 44 years

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Today was a historical watershed moment for women and girls throughout New Zealand after legislation to decriminalise abortion from the country’s Criminal Code was passed through parliament by 68 votes to 51.

the medical procedure, which was once classified as a criminal act for 44 years now allows any woman to undergo a termination up to around 20 weeks gestation after a consultation with their GP and access to counseling services without judgment, reprisals or condemnation.

Justice Minister Andrew Little described the changes to the law as ensuring women will receive better advice and treatment “in a more timely way.”

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