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Catholics Rally to Support Pro-Life Legislation in Poland

Catholics are actively engaging in the fight to uphold Poland’s pro-life legislation.

A Catholic medical association has urged Poland’s new prime minister, Donald Tusk, to reconsider proposals for permitting abortion up to 12 weeks into pregnancy.

The Catholic Association of Polish Physicians has strongly opposed the move to liberalize abortion laws, emphasizing the protection of innocent lives, women’s health, family dignity, national well-being, and the moral integrity of future generations.

This appeal follows the recent declaration by Poland’s bishops regarding the denial of Communion to politicians supporting abortion. Archbishop Stanisław Gądecki has called upon all individuals of goodwill to unequivocally support the sanctity of life.

Poland currently maintains stringent pro-life regulations, allowing abortion only in cases endangering the mother’s life, rape, or incest. Previously, exceptions were made for severe disabilities or life-threatening illnesses, but a 2020 Constitutional Tribunal ruling deemed this provision unconstitutional.

The ruling triggered widespread protests across Poland, primarily directed at the Law and Justice party, which was in power at the time. The backlash also targeted the Catholic Church, resulting in demonstrations, defacement of Church property, and criticism of the late Polish pope, St. John Paul II.

Following the court ruling, the number of legal abortions in Poland drastically decreased, reflecting a significant shift in societal attitudes towards abortion.

As Poland grapples with the abortion debate, recent data indicates a decline in religious observance, signaling a trend of secularization in the country. This shift poses challenges for the Church’s influence, particularly in relation to governmental policies and societal values.

The current political landscape in Poland is marked by a diverse coalition government with varying ideological stances, notably on moral and cultural issues like abortion. The coalition faces internal divisions over the extent of abortion law liberalization, reflecting contrasting viewpoints within the ruling parties.

The introduction of bills proposing abortion on demand up to 12 weeks has sparked further contention within the coalition, with differing opinions on the conscience clause and healthcare provider obligations.

President Andrzej Duda’s staunch anti-abortion stance presents an additional hurdle for potential legislative changes, as he holds the power to veto bills and refer them to the Constitutional Tribunal for review.

The complex dynamics within Poland’s political and social spheres underscore the ongoing battle over abortion laws, highlighting the need for careful consideration and dialogue to address this contentious issue.