‘The stigma has returned’: abortion access in turmoil in Javier Milei’s Argentina
Javier Milei’s anti-abortion rhetoric has prompted growing numbers of doctors in Argentina to refuse to carry out terminations, according to medical professionals across the country.
Since taking office in December, the self-described libertarian has used speeches to both global leaders and schoolchildren to condemn abortion as a “tragedy” and “aggravated murder”.
Health workers say such statements have already encouraged healthcare providers to refuse to provide abortion services due to their personal beliefs, and warn they could push women to use clandestine methods instead.
At one hospital in the suburbs of Buenos Aires, Julieta Bazán, a physician, said Milei’s comments have caused a spike in the number of doctors refusing to provide abortions.
“It is having a very negative impact,” Bazán said. “Stigma among professionals has increased – they fear being part of abortion teams.”
