Dispute over paragraph 218: Union and SPD divide over abortion

Dispute over paragraph 218: Union and SPD divide over abortion

In Germany, the debate about Paragraph 218, which regulates abortion, continues. The difference in the interpretation of the regulations on abortion within the coalition parties Union and SPD provides plenty of material for discussion. While the CDU is on the brakes when it comes to reform, the SPD sees the current coalition negotiations as a step in the right direction.

CDU right-wing politician Elisabeth Winkelmeier-Becker emphasizes that a change to paragraph 218 is not anchored in the coalition agreement. She argues that such a change would contradict the state's duty to protect the unborn and the case law of the Federal Constitutional Court. The Union does not see the reform as necessary and interprets the wording in the contract as an improvement in financial support for women in need. The costs of abortions for people with low incomes are already covered by the federal states, while the health insurance companies simply forward applications, says Winkelmeier-Becker. Boyen's Media reports on these different opinions.

SPD demands for reform

In contrast, SPD legal expert Carmen Wegge sees the possibility of expanding the coverage of abortion costs and making this a health insurance benefit. In your opinion, legalizing abortions in the early stages of pregnancy would be essential, as only legal interventions can be financed by health insurance companies. Before the last federal election, the SPD had already introduced a bill to legalize early-stage abortions, but it failed due to resistance from the Union. daily news illuminates the background to the discussion on the topic.

Frauke Brosius-Gersdorf, who was nominated by the SPD for the Federal Constitutional Court, also points to a wording in the coalition agreement that is intended to promote access to safe medical care for women in conflict situations. In their opinion, this requires appropriate legalization.

Current legal situation and debates

Paragraph 218 of the Criminal Code decides that abortions are illegal in Germany, but remain unpunished under certain conditions. Currently, around 100,000 women in Germany find themselves in an area of ​​tension between the legal framework and their personal fate every year. The legally required consultations three days before a planned procedure as well as certain medical and criminological indications are important points. BMFSFJ provides a comprehensive overview of the regulations.

An alliance of various organizations has long been calling for reform to make abortions legal in the first twelve weeks. Emotions and moral aspects are always important in the discussion, but politicians are currently showing little inclination towards fundamental reform, as experts emphasize. The FDP in particular, which is seen as a potential key player, has not yet taken a clear position. However, your request for more time for discussion could give more space to the current blockages.

In summary, the discussion about Paragraph 218 and the future of pregnancy rights remains a hotly debated matter that is highly topical both in political circles and in society. The protection of rights and the debate about the legalization of abortion is increasingly becoming a central issue in Germany.