Abortion in Equatorial Guinea
Abortion in Equatorial Guinea is highly restricted and subject to specific legal and cultural conditions. It is legal only under limited circumstances. These include a pregnancy that poses a risk to the health or life of the mother or fetus, or one that results from rape or incest, with a gestational limit of 12 weeks. The country requires spousal consent for abortions. Violations of abortion laws can result in severe penalties, including imprisonment and fines.[1]
Law
changePenal code
changeThe penal code of Equatorial Guinea classifies abortion as a crime. However, the government has stated that this provision is not actively enforced, according to the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights.
International commitments
changeEquatorial Guinea signed the Maputo Protocol, which guarantees women's rights to safe abortion under specific conditions.[2]
Cultural and religious influence
changeAbortion is considered taboo in the dominant Fang culture. It is strongly opposed by the majority of Catholics, who represent the largest religious group in the country. This cultural and religious opposition significantly impacts public opinion and policy enforcement.