Abortion Referendum Bill

Question: The government of which of the following countries recently approved the Abortion Referendum Bill?
(a) Norway
(b) Switzerland
(c) Ireland
(d) Sweden
Answer: (c)
Related Facts:

  • On March 8th, 2018 the Irish government approved the Abortion Referendum Bill.
  • This referendum will be done at the end of the month of May.
  • Under this referendum, Voters will be asked if they want to repeal article 40.3.3 – known as the eighth amendment.
  • Amendment; since 1983 has given unborn foetuses and pregnant women an equal right to life, effectively enshrining a ban on abortion in the country’s constitution.
  • If voters votes in favour of repeal, the government has said it will introduce legislation permitting unrestricted abortion during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy.
  • It is notable that currently, terminations are only allowed when the life of the mother is at risk.
  • Maximum penalty for accessing an illegal abortion in the country is 14 years in prison.

Reference:
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2018/mar/08/irelands-government-approves-bill-paving-way-for-abortion-referendum
http://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-42868035
http://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-43333158