Dutch government faces backlash over late-term abortion pilot

The Dutch government is facing criticism from the SGP and PVV parties regarding a pilot program that allows hospitals to perform abortions between 22 and 24 weeks of pregnancy. This pilot involves cases where there is no medical necessity, such as unplanned or unwanted pregnancies, often referred to as abortions on social indication.

Minister of Health Sophie Hermans has defended the initiative, characterizing it as an effort to improve the accessibility of existing care rather than a significant expansion of rights. She noted that abortion is legally permitted up to 24 weeks and that medical professionals are exploring whether hospitals are willing to participate in these procedures. Hermans also addressed concerns regarding fetal pain, stating that the scientific understanding of pain perception at this stage is complex.

The SGP has condemned the move, arguing that it crosses a major ethical boundary and has called for an immediate halt to the plans so that the House of Representatives can debate the matter.