Scottish Catholic bishops oppose abortion decriminalization

Catholic bishops in Scotland have expressed strong opposition to proposals to decriminalize abortion. The opposition follows demands from the Scottish Green Party to implement recommendations from a government expert group. These recommendations, issued in November 2025, suggest decriminalizing abortion and allowing it on request up to 24 weeks of pregnancy.

Bishop John Keenan of Paisley, who chairs the Scottish commission of bishops for marriage, family, and life, stated that the church is “deeply concerned” by the Green Party's view that abortion should be treated as any other medical procedure. The bishops described abortion as the “deliberate ending of an innocent, defenseless human life” and urged the Scottish government and parliament to consider the ethical, medical, and social consequences of such changes.

In addition to their opposition, the bishops called for increased government investment in midwifery care, perinatal mental health services, family support programs, pregnancy counseling, and practical assistance for women in difficult life situations. They argued that a compassionate society should protect both the mother and the child.