International developments in abortion law from 1988 to 1998

Objectives. In 2 successive decades since 1967, legal accommodation of abor tion has grown in many countries. The objective of this study was to assess whether liberalizing trends have been maintained in the last decade and wh ether increased protection of women's human rights has influenced legal ref orm. Methods. A worldwide review was conducted of legislation and judicial rulin gs affecting abortion, and legal reforms were measured against governmental commitments made under international human rights treaties and at United N ations conferences. Results. Since 1987, 26 jurisdictions have extended grounds for lawful abor tion, and 4 countries have restricted grounds. Additional limits on access to legal abortion services include restrictions on funding of services, man datory counseling and reflection delay requirements, third-party authorizat ions, and blockades of abortion clinics. Conclusions. Progressive liberalization has moved abortion laws from a focu s on punishment toward concern with women's health and welfare and with the ir human rights. However, widespread maternal mortality and morbidity show that reform must be accompanied by accessible abortion services and improve d contraceptive care and information.