In Madagascar, abortion is a leading cause of maternal mortality, with 75,000 cases reported annually, although the actual number is likely much higher due to the clandestine nature of the practice. The country's laws on abortion are among the most restrictive globally, with the penal code prohibiting abortion even in cases of rape, incest, or when the woman's life is at risk. This has led to a situation where abortions are often performed in unsafe and unsanitary conditions, resulting in complications and deaths.
The Movement Nifin'Akanga, founded by Mbolatiana Raveloarimisa, is advocating for a change in the law to allow for therapeutic abortion, which would permit abortion in cases where the woman's life is at risk. The organization has collected data from 4,478 people, which reveals that women of all ages and backgrounds are affected by abortion, with the majority of cases being performed by unqualified practitioners. The data also shows that Christians, particularly Catholics and Protestants, are the most likely to have had an abortion, despite their communities' vocal opposition to the practice.
The study by Nifin'Akanga found that the primary reasons for abortion in Madagascar are early pregnancy, unwanted pregnancy, and other factors, including rape, incest, and medical or therapeutic reasons. The most common complications arising from unsafe abortions are hemorrhage, perforation of the uterus, and infection. The organization's research also highlights the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on reproductive health, with increased cases of rape and incest reported during the lockdown.
According to Raveloarimisa, an abortion is considered safe when performed by a competent and experienced healthcare provider, using proper instruments and in hygienic conditions. However, in Madagascar, many abortions are performed using self-administered medication or by unqualified practitioners, often with devastating consequences. The Nifin'Akanga movement is working to change the narrative around abortion, emphasizing the need for safe and accessible reproductive healthcare.
The movement is pushing for a change in the law to allow for therapeutic abortion, which would bring Madagascar in line with international best practices. Raveloarimisa notes that a consensus has been reached among stakeholders on the need for a new law to permit abortion in certain circumstances. The organization is working with lawmakers and other actors to draft a bill that will be submitted to parliament in October.
Nifin'Akanga is also conducting awareness-raising campaigns and has produced two films on the realities of abortion in Madagascar. The organization's efforts have contributed to a shift in public discourse, with increasing numbers of people speaking out in support of safe and accessible abortion.
As the organization prepares to release its full study on September 28, World Abortion Day, Raveloarimisa expressed optimism that change is possible. With continued advocacy and awareness-raising, she hopes that Madagascar will move towards a more permissive abortion law, saving the lives of countless women and girls.
Key points
- - 75,000 cases of abortion are reported annually in Madagascar. - The country's abortion laws are among the most restrictive globally. - The Movement Nifin'Akanga is advocating for a change in the law to allow for therapeutic abortion.
