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3w ago

French Gynecologists Call to Scrap Abortion Conscience Clause

The CNGOF argues ditching the clause will destigmatize abortion by eliminating redundant legal provisions.

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Cette clause spécifique a été introduite par Simone Veil pour faire passer la loi sur l’IVG, en 1975. Dans le contexte d’il y a cinquante ans, on comprend bien qu’il fallait cette double clause pour rassurer les médecins qui n’y étaient pas favorables.
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Overview

  • The Collège national des gynécologues et obstétriciens français (CNGOF) voted unanimously on June 20, 2025, to remove the specific conscience clause that allowed providers to refuse abortions on moral or religious grounds.
  • The committee described the clause as symbolically stigmatizing and legally redundant given France’s existing general refusal provisions and recent constitutional protections for abortion.
  • Simone Veil introduced the specific conscience clause in 1975 to secure support for legalizing abortion and it was extended to midwives when they began performing the procedure.
  • CNGOF recommended strengthening the obligation to refer patients promptly to practitioners who perform abortions to ensure care occurs within legal time limits.
  • It also called for enhanced education on contraception and abortion even as lingering moral opposition within parts of the healthcare system could slow legislative reforms.