Abortion is a topic that continues to be shrouded in controversy, and the decision to legalize it is a
contentious issue that has led to heated debates across different countries. Legalizing abortion would
mean that women can have access to safe and legal abortion services, which would help prevent unsafe
and life-threatening procedures that risk the life of the mother. In this essay, I will argue that the
legalization of abortion is necessary for the wellbeing of women, and society as a whole.
First and foremost, legalizing abortion would promote reproductive health, which is a vital component
of public health. The World Health Organization has stated that safe abortion is a human right and an
essential part of reproductive health, and yet, many countries fail to provide adequate reproductive
health services to women. In countries where abortion is illegal, women may take drastic measures to
terminate unwanted pregnancies, putting their health, and even their lives at risk. The legalization of
abortion would ensure that women can access safe and legal abortion services, which would prevent the
occurrence of unsafe abortions that can lead to infections, severe bleeding, and death. Legalizing
abortion also promotes reproductive autonomy, which means that women have the right to make
decisions about their bodies and health.
Moreover, the legalization of abortion would promote gender equality. In many countries, women are
still expected to conform to traditional gender roles, which often limit their participation in public life,
including access to education, employment, and political participation. The right to access safe and legal
abortion services is one of the fundamental components of gender equality. Women cannot enjoy equal
social, political, and economic opportunities if they are denied control over their reproductive lives.
Legalizing abortion would also provide women with the opportunity to plan their families and pursue
their ambitions, which is essential for promoting gender equality.
Furthermore, legalizing abortion would help reduce the incidence of unwanted pregnancies and reduce
the burden of unwanted children on families and society. Many women become pregnant
unintentionally, and in some cases, it can be due to factors beyond their control, such as failed
contraception, sexual violence, or health complications. Unwanted pregnancies can have a significant
impact on women and their families, including financial strain, mental health issues, and social stigma.
Legalizing abortion would help reduce the incidence of unwanted pregnancies and provide women with
the opportunity to control their reproductive lives, which would reduce the burden of unwanted
children on families and society.
Similarly, legalizing abortion would promote social and economic development. Unwanted pregnancies
can affect the social and economic development of families and society as a whole. For example, women
who become pregnant as teenagers may have to drop out of school, which can limit their future
prospects for employment and financial independence. Moreover, families with many children may
struggle to provide basic necessities such as food, shelter, and education. Legalizing abortion would help
reduce the burden of unwanted pregnancies on families and society, which would contribute to social
and economic development.
In conclusion, the legalization of abortion is a necessary step towards promoting reproductive health,
gender equality, and social and economic development. It is a fundamental human right for women to
have control over their bodies and reproductive health decisions. Access to safe and legal abortion
services is crucial for preventing unsafe abortions, reducing the burden of unwanted pregnancies, and
promoting the wellbeing of women and society as a whole. Rather than denying women the right to
choose, we should provide them with the resources and support they need to make informed decisions
about their reproductive health.
