Historic parliamentary vote marks a milestone in women’s rights
In a landmark decision, France has become the first nation to enshrine a woman’s right to abortion in its constitution, following a joint session of parliament at the Palace of Versailles. The measure, approved in a decisive 780-72 vote, builds on France’s 1975 legislation legalising abortion. It marks the first constitutional guarantee of such rights since the former Yugoslavia’s 1974 constitution, a stance still maintained by Serbia.
Prime Minister Gabriel Attal urged the 925 lawmakers present to make France a global leader in women’s rights, referencing feminist icon Simone Veil, who championed the 1975 abortion law. Attal’s powerful appeal to “make Simone Veil proud” drew a standing ovation.
The bill had already cleared hurdles in France’s National Assembly and the Senate, reflecting broad political and public support. Polls indicate more than 80% of French citizens back constitutional protection of abortion. While even far-right leader Marine Le Pen’s National Rally supported the bill, she downplayed its historic significance.
The move underscores France’s commitment to safeguarding women’s rights amid global challenges, including the 2022 U.S. Supreme Court ruling overturning federal abortion protections. Women’s rights activists hailed the constitutional amendment as a decisive victory that strengthens legal protections and resists anti-choice movements worldwide.
