Thousands protest across Poland for access to free and legal abortions
Summary
Thousands of people across Poland protested to demand free and legal abortion after a near-total ban was imposed six years ago. The government has proposed easing restrictions, but the laws face likely vetoes by the conservative president, and activists say real access to abortion remains very limited.Key Facts
- Poland’s top court imposed a near-total abortion ban six years ago.
- Abortion in Poland is now only allowed in cases of rape, incest, or danger to the mother's health.
- Prime Minister Donald Tusk’s government promised to soften abortion laws after winning the 2023 election.
- Two new bills easing abortion restrictions passed parliament but may be vetoed by conservative President Karol Nawrocki.
- Large protests took place in over 20 Polish cities demanding access to free and legal abortion.
- Many Polish women still get abortions at home using pills from outside the country.
- People who assist women with abortions risk prosecution, but women themselves are not criminalized.
- Hospitals reported more abortions in the first half of 2026 than in all of 2022, but activists say many abortions still happen outside hospitals.
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