In June 2020, the Committee for Health & Social Care presented recommendations to the States of Deliberation to amend the Abortion (Guernsey) Law, 1997.
The proposals were formulated using the guiding principles of the Partnership of Purpose and following a review of abortion legislation in the Republic of Ireland and British jurisdictions, the most robust scientific evidence and a consultation with health professionals. Public engagement was undertaken and found the majority of responses to be supportive of the Committee's recommendations.
The States resolved to agree the Committee's proposals without amendment. The Abortion (Guernsey) (Amendment) Law, 2021 effects the direction of the States, and will ensure that the Law reflects modern practice and that access to abortion care is more equitable.
The Amendment Law will be presented to the States in 2021.
