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The Dutch party is withholding support for PRO’s proposal while it awaits the Council of State’s advice, leaving its position open.
Wat is er gewijzigd? · 28-09-2026, 09:57 UTC
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PRO MP Lisa Vliegenthart plans to submit a proposal on Monday, 28 September, to remove abortion from Dutch criminal law. It would repeal Article 296 of the Criminal Code, which makes a person who performs an abortion criminally liable unless it takes place in a specialist clinic or hospital, ANP reports. [1]
Vliegenthart argues that abortion is healthcare and should not be covered by criminal law. PRO wants Article 296 repealed in full. [1]
The planned proposal follows an earlier effort by former MP Corinne Ellemeet. Vliegenthart intends to submit it on International Safe Abortion Day. [1]
PRO MP Lisa Vliegenthart submitted the proposal to the Dutch House of Representatives on Monday, ANP reported. It seeks to remove Article 296 from the Criminal Code. The provision makes a person who performs an abortion liable to punishment unless the procedure takes place in a designated clinic or hospital. Vliegenthart said existing quality requirements for abortion care would remain in place under her proposal. [2] [3]
Outside parliament in The Hague, about 50 Dolle Mina campaigners staged a symbolic court hearing focused on Article 296. Protest organiser Jaqueline van Kampen welcomed the proposal and called it a crucial political moment. [2]
Small anti-abortion counter-demonstrations also took place near parliament, with photographs of foetuses on display. [2]
The VVD has not yet backed PRO’s proposal to remove abortion from Dutch criminal law. The party says it will wait for the Council of State’s advice before deciding whether to support it, ANP reported. [4]
VVD MP Hilde Wendel said women make considered decisions about abortion care and politicians should handle the issue carefully. The VVD opposed removing abortion from the criminal code in 2023, but its 2025 election programme supported the change if a comprehensive alternative to protect women was in place.
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PRO MP Lisa Vliegenthart, who initiated the proposal, believes the VVD could support it. ANP said the party appears crucial to securing a parliamentary majority. [4]
A PRO spokesperson said the Council of State’s response was expected in about 12 weeks, with a debate on the proposal to follow as soon as possible. [4]