Venezuelan women rely on secret abortions as Colombia tightens border access

Abortion remains a criminal offense in Venezuela, punishable by up to two years in prison, forcing women such as Tatian a 22-year-old dancer to seek medication like misoprostol through secret networks. A 500-woman AVESA survey reported 5.1% had self-managed abortions, with poorer women buying pills on the black market and wealthier ones paying over $800 at clandestine clinics. Colombia, once a safe haven where migrants could access legal abortions up to the 24th week, is now facing a constitutional reform driven by a pro-life bloc and a new president, Abelardo de la Espriella, that could close that option.

U.S. funding restrictions have further limited NGOs that assist migrants, and some border officials reportedly threaten women with deportation. Feminist groups such as Tinta Violeta and Unidas Para Avanzar highlight the growing isolation of women, especially as evangelical churches intensify anti-abortion campaigns. The situation leaves many Venezuelan women without safe care, increasing health risks amid ongoing economic collapse and recent earthquakes.