Abortion in Democratic Republic Of Congo
Abortion in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), has long been governed by multiple, sometimes conflicting legal frameworks. While the Penal Code criminalizes abortion outright, the DRC is also a signatory to and has published the Maputo Protocol, which grants certain legal exceptions [1]. Since 2018, the Public Health Law and Ministry of Health guidelines have begun aligning national practice with international commitments, permitting abortion in cases of rape, incest, fetal anomalies, and risks to life or health. The DRC’s Penal Code still prohibits abortion under Article 165-166 but allows a narrow exception when the pregnancy endangers the person’s life (articulated in the code of medical ethics and the Public Health Law) [1].
Is abortion legal in DRC?
No. Abortion on request is illegal in the DRC. It is only permitted under specific legal circumstances, such as: rape, incest, fetal anomaly, or when the pregnancy severely risks a person’s life or health. The DRC’s Penal Code still prohibits abortion under Article 165-166 but allows a narrow exception when the pregnancy endangers the person’s life (articulated in the code of medical ethics and the Public Health Law) [1]. In 2018, the government published the Maputo Protocol in the Official Gazette, bringing its provisions into national law. This has legalized abortion in cases of sexual violence, incest, fetal defects, and threats to physical or mental health [2]. Furthermore, the Ministry of Health issued comprehensive abortion-care standards and guidelines in 2020. They define who may provide abortion care, where, and under what circumstances, in alignment with WHO standards and the Maputo Protocol.Despite legal progress, access to safe abortion varies widely. Penalties in the Penal Code remain, public awareness is low, and many providers and facilities remain uncertain or unwilling to offer these services [3].
Abortion with pills in DRC
In-clinic abortion in DRC
Support and Resources in Democratic Republic Of Congo
Who can I contact for more information about abortion in Democratic Republic Of Congo?
Please contact the following organizations to access abortion services and information.
Batela Lobi Na Yo
Sexual and Reproductive Health Services, including family planning and HIV prevention.
The Association de Bien-Être Familial – Naissances Désirables (ABEF-ND)
Promotes sexual and reproductive health and rights, focusing on family planning and maternal health.
Hotline
+243 890 399 496
Website
https://abef-nd.org/web/Marie Stopes International DRC
Post abortion care (PAC) information and support or for safe abortions that are legally allowed.
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