In a move viewed as regressive by critics, the Italian government has introduced a legal regulation concerning abortion access, sparking concerns about its impact, Ednews reports via BBC.
The regulation allowing anti-abortion activists entry into abortion clinics is being interpreted by opposition groups and women's organizations as an effort to undermine this fundamental right through psychological coercion.
Drafted by the Brotherhood of Italy (FdI) party, a key member of the right-wing coalition government, the regulation was approved by the Chamber of Deputies.
Included in a broader legislative package linked to the utilization of the EU recovery fund post-pandemic, the regulation is expected to smoothly pass through the Senate.
Under the new regulation, anti-abortion associations and activists will gain access to counseling clinics where women receive certificates indicating their intent to terminate pregnancy.
Critics fear that so-called "pro-life" associations may exacerbate psychological pressure on women seeking abortions under this law.