Women Protest Limits on Abortion
Women’s rights groups have criticized the country’s new Criminal Code (KUHP) for continuing to criminalize abortion except in cases of rape or medical necessity, calling the law a setback for women’s reproductive rights and bodily autonomy. At a recent discussion to commemorate International Women’s Day this month, speakers highlighted how restrictive abortion regulations continue to limit women’s control over their own bodies. “Abortion is often left undiscussed because of its sharp intersection with morality and regulation,” said Ika Ayu, director of reproductive rights advocacy group Samsara, during the Feb. 24 discussion hosted by Perempuan Mahardika in Jakarta. “It’s the most tangible manifestation of state control over women’s bodies.” She pointed to the newly enacted KUHP, which criminalizes abortion except in cases involving sexual violence or rape, with a 14-week gestational limit, as well as medical emergencies that require the procedure. The maximum penalty for violating these provisions is four years in prison.