During this MEP campaign we have sent out an electronic letter to all candidates that asks them to describe their position on sexual education, contraception, and the decriminalisation of abortion. The letter is published below, along with the responses of MEP candidates.
Our letter
Dear Maltese MEP Candidate,
As a constituent and a member of Doctors for Choice, I am writing to you ahead of the upcoming elections to inquire about your stance on the decriminalization of abortion. Our organization advocates for the rights and health of individuals who can become pregnant, recognizing that access to safe and legal abortion care is an essential component of comprehensive healthcare.
It is imperative that MEPs uphold their responsibility to protect the rights and well-being of all individuals, including those who require access to abortion services. Abortion care is healthcare, as acknowledged by international guidelines such as those set forth by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists. Therefore, it is crucial that legislative measures align with these standards to ensure the safety and dignity of those seeking abortion services.
Additionally, I would like to emphasize the importance of promoting comprehensive sex education and ensuring free access to contraception for all individuals. Doctors for Choice advocates for policies that facilitate easy and cost-free access to contraception, as well as comprehensive sex education for people of all ages. These measures are fundamental to empowering individuals to make informed choices about their reproductive health and preventing unintended pregnancies.
In light of the above, I would appreciate hearing your views on the following questions:
1. What is your stance on the decriminalization of abortion?
2. How do you plan to ensure that individuals have access to safe and legal abortion care?
3. Are you willing to support and promote comprehensive sex education for all individuals?
4. What measures will you take to ensure free access to contraception for those who need it?
Your responses to these questions will help me and other voters make informed decisions in the upcoming elections. We believe that policies that prioritize reproductive rights, including access to abortion care, comprehensive sex education, and free contraception, are essential for promoting public health and gender equality.
Please note that Doctors for Choice intends to publish the responses received to this letter to ensure transparency and inform the public about candidates' positions on these critical issues. We will also make any lack of responses public on our website too.
Thank you for considering these important issues, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely,
Natalie Psaila
MD, MCFD, MRCGP (Int)
Doctors for Choice Malta
Rachelle Deguara, MEP Candidate for ADPD/Greens
1. What is your stance on the decriminalization of abortion?
In favor for full decriminalization.
2. How do you plan to ensure that individuals have access to safe and legal abortion care?
Work closely with organisations such as D4C and FPAS Malta to understand and work towards the current needs.
3. Are you willing to support and promote comprehensive sex education for all individuals?
Yes, I am willing to support and promote comprehensive sex education for all individuals.
4. What measures will you take to ensure free access to contraception for those who need it?
Local councils need to be more decentralised so that they have the autonomy to develop and establish local services that will provide free access to contraception and family planning.
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