Feb 20 • 16:29 UTC 🇸🇰 Slovakia Postoj

Brussels wants to push 'the right to abortion' through the budget / Women in crisis need help, not a ticket abroad

The European Citizens' Initiative My Voice, My Choice is urging the European Commission to create a financial mechanism to reimburse abortion costs for women traveling to other EU member states, sparking significant ethical and sovereignty concerns in Slovakia.

The European Citizens' Initiative My Voice, My Choice is advocating for the European Commission to establish a financial mechanism funded by EU taxpayers that would cover the costs for women traveling to other EU member states for abortions. This proposal has raised substantial ethical concerns, particularly from organizations like the Forum for Life, which is part of the European pro-life federation ONE OF US. The organization sees this initiative not only as an ethical challenge but also as a direct attempt to circumvent existing European laws governing health policy and ethics, which are traditionally within the purview of national governments.

Critics argue that this proposal undermines national sovereignty by attempting to create a new 'European right to abortion' through budgetary measures. They contend that Slovakia’s existing rules have been developed through long-term societal evolution and are reflective of local values and democratic will. If Brussels were to fund travel for abortions to countries with more permissive laws, it could effectively render Slovakia's own legislation powerless and dismiss the preferences of its citizens regarding abortion rights.

Additionally, the economic implications of such a funding mechanism are concerning. The potential allocation of EU funds to support abortion travel could divert resources from other essential areas of public health and welfare that are crucial for women in crisis situations. Overall, this initiative highlights the ongoing tensions between EU-level policy-making and national sovereignty, posing critical questions on the balance of power within the European Union.

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