Discussion on the Bill on amending the Law related to Abortion in Sri Lanka, currently presented to parliament for cabinet approval took place at FPA Sri Lanka Headquarters on the 20^th of September. Leading this discussion, was Professor Sir Sabaratnam Arulkumaran, whose research and clinical interests are in understanding and improving the quality of life for women and newborn babies. He is an eminent Professor in Gynecology based in London, who has obtained his MD and PhD by research. He gained membership of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (MRCOG) and fellowship of the Royal College of Surgeons by examination.

With regards to why this consultation was called upon, Ms Thushara Agus – Executive Director, FPA Sri Lanka said “Sri Lankan law on abortion is archaic and needs urgent amendments that we as a group have been advocating, for many decades. At this important juncture when a bill on relaxing the law for certain conditions is being considered, we feel it is important to rally around for support and to this end, be guided by experts who have seen through similar experiences in other parts of the world”

Members of the audience comprised prominent Doctors, Lawyers, representatives of the Family Health Bureau, members of youth groups and representatives of the Catholic Doctors Guild. FPA Sri Lanka was represented by our  Hon.President  Mr. Chandima Gunawardena,  Hon. Vice President Dr. Pramilla Senanayake , Dr. Esther Amarasekara (General Secretary), Dr. Sriyani Basnayake (Chairperson – IEC),Ms. Sarah Soysa (Assistant General Secretary)

Miss. Priskila Arulpragasam (Chairperson – Youth), the Senior Management Team and staff members belonging to the Public Affairs, Policy and Advocacy Unit.

After the presentation of Professor Sir Arulkumaran, participants expressed their views, opinions, personal experiences of this moral and ethical issue in focus. Those in agreement thereafter, signed a pledge of support as seen below.