The parliament of the Faroe Islands voted on Thursday to legalise abortion until the end of the 12th week of pregnancy, overturning a decades-old law that prohibited abortions in most cases.
Previous legislation allowed abortions only under certain circumstances - such as rape, incest, or risk to the health of the pregnant woman - making the self-governing Danish territory one of the most restrictive in Europe.
After a heated parliamentary debate, the vote concluded narrowly with MPs approving the reform by 17 to 16.
This is truly a historic day in the Faroe Islands, stated Ingilín Didriksen Strømm, one of the bill's proponents.
The MP added, This change affirms women's autonomy over their own bodies in the Faroe Islands, guaranteeing access to safe healthcare without fear or stigma.
The new legislation, set to take effect on July 1, 2026, replaces laws dating back to 1956, which permitted abortions only under specific circumstances, including severe fetal health issues and if the woman was deemed unfit to care for the child.
Those previously involved in an abortion faced the risk of imprisonment, a situation criticized by pro-choice advocates who argue that the laws were outdated.
Amnesty International's Faroe Islands branch expressed approval for the reform, recognizing it as a significant advancement for human rights and emphasizing the importance of safe, legal access to abortion.
In contrast, opposition voices in parliament raise concerns over the rights of the fetus, with warnings of potential attempts to reverse the legislation.
The Faroe Islands, a remote archipelago home to around 56,000 residents, have historically been characterized by conservative values, but this reform marks a pivotal moment in its legislative history, reflecting evolving social attitudes towards reproductive rights.
