The debate over abortion laws in Scotland has intensified, with the Catholic Church voicing significant concerns over proposed changes that could alter the landscape of reproductive rights in the country.
A draft motion has been introduced based on the Scottish Abortion Law Reform Expert Group’s recommendations, which could potentially legalize abortion up to the moment of birth. This proposal has sparked a strong reaction from the Catholic Church in Scotland.
Bishop John Keenan, who is the President of the National Office for Marriage, Family and Life for the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Scotland, criticized the expert group for excluding pro-life perspectives and adhering to a principle of “non-regression” on abortion, which he claims undermines the group’s legitimacy.
The bishop pointed out that while the recommendations could allow abortions up to birth, they also fail to address the issue of sex-selective abortions, potentially permitting gender-based terminations.
Recent data indicates that abortion has become the leading cause of death in Scotland, surpassing even cancer. Bishop Keenan advocates for increased support for mothers and children instead of expanding abortion access.
In his statement, Bishop Keenan expressed an understanding of the challenges women face with unexpected pregnancies, emphasizing that they need compassion and support rather than more accessible late-stage abortions.
“I recognise the real fear, pressure and hardship that can accompany an unexpected or crisis pregnancy,” he stated. “Women in such circumstances deserve compassion, practical assistance, emotional support and the assurance that neither they nor their children will be abandoned.
“A truly caring society must respond to vulnerability by offering hope and help, not by making abortion more readily available at later stages of pregnancy.”
He concluded by highlighting the moral and social implications of the proposed law changes, stressing the importance of protecting unborn children and supporting mothers in a dignified manner.
This article was originally written by www.christiantoday.com
