Hundreds of Chilean women march in support for abortion law reform: Video
In downtown Santiago, hundreds of mostly women gathered to demand reforms to Chile's restrictive abortion laws as part of the Global Day of Action for Legal, Safe, and Accessible Abortion.
While Chile legalised abortion in 2017, it is only permitted under three conditions: risk to the mother's life, non-viability of the fetus, and in cases of rape, the AFP reports.
Protesters called for broader access to abortion services, in line with President Gabriel Boric's recent promise.
In June, Boric announced plans to introduce a bill by the end of 2024 that would expand the legal grounds for abortion in the country.
The demonstrators, made up of students, activists, and supporters, called for the implementation of free, public, and safe abortion services, arguing it is essential for public health and women's rights.
Mariana Perez, a 20-year-old student, said, "Free, public, and safe abortion has yet to be implemented in Chile, and I believe it is necessary as a matter of public health, beyond the ideals one may have."
Women's rights activist Angelica Salas, 34, echoed the sentiment, advocating for the decriminalisation of abortion. "I think it is very important that we women have the right to decide. And that the only important thing is that it is our decision," she said.
The protest featured dancing, drum performances, and chants demanding change.
