'Women in Argentina live in hell': calls for legal abortion grow

When I tell people abroad that abortions are still illegal in Argentina, they say, ‘You must live in hell,’” says comedian Malena Pichot. “And yes, women in Argentina live in hell.”

The country has very restrictive abortion laws. Even when it is deemed lawful – in the case of rape, or when a woman’s life is in danger – doctors are often unwilling to proceed for fear of prosecution.

But a shift in public opinion in this traditionally conservative country has forced congress to vote on a bill to change the law later this month. The amendment would allow terminations in the first 14 weeks of pregnancy.

“At last! Legal abortion is at the top of the feminist agenda,” says Señorita Bimbo, another comedian, whose treatment of abortion during her standup routines and on TV has helped propel the discussion about the subject into the mainstream media.

Bimbo, whose real name is María Virginia Godoy, says calls for abortion liberalisation are being driven by young women, who comprise the largest section of her audience. “These young women have clear knowledge of the issue, they don’t need it explained. They are not ashamed to be identified as feminists either, or of taking a stance on social media.”

Source: theguardian