A key committee in Brazil’s lower house of Congress voted Wednesday to advance legislation that would ban abortion in all circumstances, including cases currently permitted such as rape, fetal deformation, and risks to maternal health.
The Constitutional and Legal Affairs Committee approved the measure 35-15, with conservative members forming the majority. The proposed constitutional amendment would establish that the right to life begins at conception rather than birth.
“The amendment will ensure that unborn children will enjoy the right to life,” said Chris Tonietto of the right-wing Liberal Party, who sponsored the legislation.
Progressive lawmakers opposed the bill, describing it as a “secular setback” that would threaten women’s rights. Critics also warned the measure could halt stem cell research and prevent procedures such as in vitro fertilization.
“It’s a provocation. It is shameless and perverse to say that this is a defense of anyone’s life,” said Samia Bomfim of the Socialism and Liberty Party.
The proposal now moves to a special committee for further consideration, with discussions expected to begin early next year.
