A radical review commissioned for the Scottish Government has proposed a fundamental overhaul of the nation's abortion laws, including permitting terminations at any point up to birth under specific conditions.
Core Recommendations of the Abortion Law Review
The controversial 165-page document, published yesterday, was commissioned by Humza Yousaf during his tenure as First Minister. Chaired by the esteemed Professor Anna Glasier, the abortion law expert group has put forward several key recommendations.
A central proposal is to allow abortions after the current 24-week limit if two registered healthcare professionals—which could be doctors, nurses, or midwives—agree that the procedure is appropriate. This agreement would be based on the woman's or foetus's medical circumstances, or any related physical, psychological, or social factors.
Furthermore, the review advocates for the removal of the requirement for specific grounds to be met for any abortion performed before the 24-week gestation period. It also calls for the full decriminalisation of abortion by stripping it from criminal law entirely.
Strong Reactions from Campaigners and Medical Bodies
The proposals have ignited fierce debate, drawing strong criticism from pro-life organisations. Michael Robinson, General Secretary of the Society for the Protection of Unborn Children, branded the recommendations 'disastrous and destructive'. He stated, 'These proposals would mean abortion up to birth with practically no restrictions. They disregard the human rights of the unborn child.'
Similarly, Joanna Timm of The Christian Institute labelled the review 'reckless', claiming it was driven by activists and did not reflect the will of the Scottish public.
In contrast, the report has received support from prominent medical institutions. Professor Ranee Thakar, President of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, welcomed the findings. She said the proposed changes are 'an important step towards ensuring that women can access abortion care safely, confidentially and without fear of investigation or prosecution.'
What Happens Next?
Professor Glasier emphasised that the report shows it is time for a law that reflects modern clinical practice. The final decision now rests with the Scottish Government. A government spokesperson, Women’s Health Minister Jenni Minto, confirmed they will 'take time to carefully consider all the findings and respond in due course.'
These proposed reforms place Scotland at the centre of a deeply polarised national conversation about reproductive rights and the future of abortion law.
