FIGO releases statement welcoming Benin’s new law improving access to safe abortion
Benin’s Parliament passed a new legal amendment to the Sexual Health and Reproduction (SRH) 2003 Law on Wednesday 20 October 2021, which is a much-needed step to address preventable maternal deaths and disability suffered by women, girls and their families due to unsafe abortion.
The new law is a giant leap forward in addressing unsafe abortions in Benin. Unsafe abortions are a deadly pandemic, and a leading cause of preventable maternal deaths and disability in Benin. FIGO welcomes the new amendment to the SRH law in Benin and recognises the commitment of the Collège National des Gynécologues Obstétriciens du Bénin (CNGOB). We are proud to have supported their work to strengthen advocacy for safe abortion through our Advocating for Safe Abortion Project.
The Collège National des Gynécologues Obstétriciens du Bénin (CNGOB), together with our partners, are proud that our government has considered our clinical evidence and our first-hand insights to address the impact of unsafe abortions – a leading cause of maternal deaths and disability in Benin. This new legally binding amendment positions our country at the forefront of nations committed to strengthening women and girl’s sexual reproductive health care.
– Dr Emmanuel Ewanignon, CNGOB Vice-President