The Interplay of Realms in Shaping Access to Safe and Legal Abortion Services in Sri Lanka in Cases of Rape-Induced Pregnancies

Abstract

In Sri Lanka, abortion is only permitted when the life of the mother is in danger, making it illegal in most cases. However, regardless of the legal restrictions, women still seek and access illegal abortion services. It is evident that Rights Groups have been advocating for decriminalization of abortion in the country for many years with the aim of ensuring safer and equitable access to abortion services as the clandestine practices poses significant risks to women’s health and well-being, occasionally resulting in tragic consequences, including loss of life. Therefore, this paper revolves around analysing the multifaceted factors influencing access to abortion focusing on the interconnections between legal, social, economic and healthcare sectors with the prime goal of striving towards ensuring women’s reproductive rights, safeguarding their health and preventing unnecessary loss of life. The study begins by examining the legal frameworks surrounding abortion in both Sri Lankan and UK jurisdictions. Furthermore, the study investigates the social attitudes, cultural beliefs associated with abortion, economic implications of accessing safe and legal abortion services and the healthcare sector’s role in providing reproductive healthcare services for survivors of rape seeking abortion services. By examining the interplay between these sectors in the two jurisdictions, the study aims to identify barriers and facilitators that shape access to safe and legal abortion services in case of rape-induced pregnancies in Sri Lanka and to raise the urgent need for comprehensive reforms by drawing insights from best practices observed in the UK jurisdiction.