The Guyana Responsible Parenthood Association (GRPA) says it will submit a proposal to the Constitutional Reform Commission before the end of the year seeking constitutional protection for reproductive autonomy, including access to abortion.

The announcement came in a statement on September 28 marking International Safe Abortion Day. The association also called for an end to what it described as stigma, discrimination and misinformation about abortion, particularly in online discussions in Guyana.

GRPA Executive Director Kobe Smith said women and girls should not be led to believe that they must have experienced rape or another exceptional circumstance before they can seek an abortion. He pointed to the Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act, under which a pregnancy of no more than eight weeks may be terminated without establishing the grounds required for later procedures.

“Abortion is legal in Guyana,” Smith said. “The law recognises choice. We must also respect that choice.”

The 1995 Act sets different requirements according to the duration of pregnancy and the method of termination. Its provision for pregnancies of no more than eight weeks applies to lawful, appropriate ‘non-surgical’ treatment administered or supervised by a medical practitioner. The Act also provides for counselling and a 48-hour waiting period after a request. Terminations later in pregnancy are subject to further conditions. 

GRPA stressed that the law does not require a woman to obtain her husband’s or partner’s permission. It also does not require a pregnant child to obtain parental or guardian consent or require a provider to notify them, although a provider may encourage the child to speak with her parents. Those provisions are set out in Section 8 of the Act. 

Smith said people were entitled to their moral and religious views on abortion, but should not use those views to shame or interfere with others seeking lawful healthcare. The association argued that hostile commentary could discourage people from seeking reliable information and timely care.

GRPA did not provide details of the constitutional wording it intends to propose. It said its submission would build on the protections in the existing Act and called on healthcare workers, public figures, community leaders, media practitioners and social media users to discuss the issue responsibly.

The association said it would continue to provide confidential and non-judgmental sexual and reproductive healthcare.