New ANSER policy paper on ‘Rethinking abortion policy in Georgia’ published

ANSER has released a new policy paper titled "Rethinking Abortion Policy in Georgia: From Restrictive Measures to Evidence-Based Approaches." The paper assesses recent ministerial decrees, notably the Amendment to Order N01-74/N, 2023, aimed at curbing the abortion rate in the state. The amendment introduces several changes, including pre-abortion counseling with multiple specialists, inpatient requirements for post-seven-week abortions, and mandatory ultrasounds. The policy paper challenges the assumption that limiting abortion access effectively reduces abortion numbers and boosts fertility rates. Instead, the authors argue that such restrictions may lead to delayed care, unsafe abortions, and increased social inequalities. ANSER’s paper advocates for evidence-based approaches, emphasizing the need to address broader socio-economic and cultural factors contributing to declining fertility rates. As Georgia reevaluates its abortion policies, the authors urge policymakers to prioritize strategies grounded in evidence to shape the state's reproductive health landscape.

Please read the policy paper here.