Polish parliament passes bills to decriminalise abortion, sparking fierce political backlash

In the 67th session of the Sejm, members passed two separate pieces of legislation on abortion. The coalition of KO and Lewica seeks to partially decriminalise the practice, while the Polski 2050 initiative would re-introduce the possibility of terminating pregnancies when severe fetal defects are diagnosed. Both drafts propose to lift criminal penalties for helping or encouraging abortions, extending beyond one outlet 12-week restriction.

The vote triggered a wave of commentary on social media, ranging from accusations of national self-destruction to praise for advancing women's autonomy. Figures such as Łukasz Bernaciński of Ordo Iuris and journalist Jakub Wozinski denounced the reforms, whereas Minister Barbara Nowacka and MEP Robert Biedroń hailed them as essential steps toward gender equality.