Hungary adopts new 'heart‑beat' rule for abortions amid policy debate

The Hungarian government under Prime Minister Viktor Orbán introduced a regulation that requires a fetal heartbeat to be detected before an abortion can be performed. The measure, known as the "aszívhangrendelet," adds procedural steps that critics say increase mental stress for women seeking the procedure.

At the same time, the cabinet discussed legalising medication‑induced abortions and making the abortifacient pill available without a prescription. A meeting convened by Health Minister Zsolt Hegedűs was attended almost exclusively by pro‑choice organisations, prompting 27 anti‑abortion groups to issue a joint protest condemning the government's approach.

The policy shift is presented by officials as a response to public health concerns, but observers view it as a political move aimed at rallying the ruling party's conservative base during an economic downturn marked by high inflation and social discontent.