In July, Portugal put on trial three women accused of participating in an illegal abortion. Two of the women were charged with having an illegal abortion, while the third was a midwife charged with performing the abortion.
Portugal has strict laws that only allow abortions to be performed in the case of rape or serious health risks to the mother, and then abortions can only be performed through the 12th week of pregnancy. Undergoing an abortion other than under these conditions is punishable by up to three years and jail and performing an illegal abortion is punishable by up to eight years in jail.
According to Agence France Presse, family planning groups estimate that anywhere from 20,000 to 40,000 illegal abortions are carried out every year in Portugal.
Source:
Abortion trial resumes in Portugal. Agence France Presse, June 22, 2004.
International petition calls for acquittals in Portugal abortion trial. Agence France Presse, July 6, 2004.
Three women stand trial for abortion in Portugal. Feminist Daily News Wire, July 8, 2004.