Poland's Abortion Rights Stalemate: Promises, Setbacks, and Hope

Two years after Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk promised to reform the country's strict abortion laws, many supporters feel disillusioned due to coalition constraints. Despite potential presidential changes, abortion rights have been sidelined in the upcoming May 18 election, overshadowed by other issues like security and economic stability.

WARSAW, May 12— Two years following his rise to prime minister, Donald Tusk's pledge to amend Poland's stringent abortion laws remains largely unfulfilled. His coalition's divisions have hampered progress, leaving many supporters disenchanted as the country approaches its presidential election on May 18.

Although a shift from conservative President Andrzej Duda to a liberal contender might prompt policy changes, the focus of candidates has diverted from abortion rights to wider socio-political issues, such as security and economic stability. Tusk's political rival, Warsaw mayor Rafal Trzaskowski, has downplayed abortion reform to appeal to conservative voters.

The restrictive legal landscape has only spurred NGOs like Abortion Without Borders to enable cross-border access to abortion services. Without a substantial policy shift, many fear Poland will continue to struggle with meaningful abortion rights advancements post-election.

(With inputs from agencies.)