Strategic Focus > Abortion
The problematic subject of escalating unsafe abortions has become a significant health and social concern in Sri Lanka. The law governing abortion is exceedingly restrictive while permitting exceptions for cases when pregnancy/childbirth is threatening to the life of the mother. However, unsafe abortions are performed in large numbers. Women faced with unwanted pregnancies are forced to undergo abortions which are conducted secretively by untrained individuals in exceptionally unhygienic conditions. FPA Sri Lanka proposes to work against unsafe abortions through lobbying and advocating for the universal right of women to live healthy and safe lives, free from the fear of death and disease. The Association with its close-knit relationships among the people of the country and government/non-governmental organizations and civil society organizations is perceived as an organization which recognizes and respects cultural values and norms.

Goal: To ensure the right of access to safe and legalized abortion and a decreased incidence of unsafe abortion.

Main objectives:
  • To raise awareness among the community and policy makers regarding the health and social impact of unsafe abortions.
  • To advocate safe abortion services under specific circumstances.