Following two decades of sporadic attempts by legislators to decriminalize abortion in Monaco, a recent proposal to establish a legal framework for the practice has emerged.

Introduced on March 7, the proposed law, designated as bill number 267, aims to allow women to terminate pregnancies domestically without the need for specific justification and to receive care from social welfare bodies.

This development has raised concerns from the archdiocese of Monaco, which issued a statement characterizing the issue as serious and one that pertains to the entire community, including women, families, and unborn children.

The clergy emphasized the societal and institutional implications of the proposal, describing them as troubling on multiple fronts.

Archbishop Dominique-Marie David expressed his apprehension that such legislation might challenge the Concordat governing the relationship between the Principality and the Catholic Church.

He questioned whether there is a general desire among the Monaco populace to abandon their current status, suggesting that a significant majority would prefer to avoid drastic changes that could potentially place the sovereign Prince in a difficult position.

David posed broader questions about the identity of Monaco and whether it is acceptable to maintain certain non-negotiable values within the principality.

In contrast, Thomas Brezzo, President of the National Council, countered concerns raised by the archbishop using comparative legal studies and canon law.

He stated that the proposal does not contravene existing laws, though he acknowledged that it could be sensitive for individuals based on their religious beliefs.

Brezzo described efforts to compose a balanced text that addresses differing viewpoints.

The archdiocese responded critically to Brezzo's comments, indicating that discussing such a significant issue in media channels may lead to division or pressure within the community.

They reiterated their commitment to respect legislative processes while offering to engage with institutional stakeholders to discuss significant challenges posed by the proposed law, especially regarding Catholic teachings that are integral to Monaco’s identity.

The National Council plans to examine the proposal in April, at which point it will need to be transformed into a formal bill by the government and would later require a subsequent vote.

This legislative effort comes against a backdrop of increasing public debate on the issue, particularly marked by the International Women’s Day on March 8, 2025, when the bill was officially submitted.

Despite the decriminalization of abortion in 2019, the legal framework has remained restrictive, with existing laws permitting the procedure only under specific circumstances, such as in cases of rape or serious medical danger.

Medical professionals performing abortions face significant penalties, compelling women in need to seek procedures abroad.

The proposal seeks to address these legal gaps, aiming to provide secure access to abortion while maintaining a careful regulatory approach.

Key provisions of the proposal include the decriminalization of abortion up to 12 weeks of pregnancy without justification, extending the limit to 16 weeks in cases of rape, implementing a three-day reflection period for informed decision-making, and ensuring social coverage for the procedure to promote equal access.

Public sentiment appears to favor the proposed changes, with a national survey revealing that 80% of Monaco residents support the legalization of abortion.

However, the passage of the proposed law remains uncertain, with ongoing discussions anticipated to address diverse opinions and the realities faced by women in the region.

The outcome of this legislative initiative will be monitored closely by women's rights advocates, medical associations, and political entities, as Monaco navigates its approaches to health policies and personal liberties.