In an era where the United States is often warned to learn from the trajectory of Western nations, particularly those in the EU, recent developments in France have raised concerns among conservatives about the potential future of the U.S. landscape. Critics argue that once-mighty nations like England are succumbing to left-wing ideologies, witnessing a decline in individual rights and religious freedoms. The impact of immigration, a prominent issue in EU countries, is becoming a prevalent concern in the United States as well.
A significant shift in France’s legislation on abortion has caught the attention of conservatives. The French Parliament, by a vote of 780 to 72, passed an amendment declaring abortion a constitutional right. This landmark decision makes France the first nation to embed the legal right to abortion in its constitution, designating it as a “guaranteed freedom.” Prime Minister Gabriel Attal emphasized the message that women’s bodies belong solely to them, and no external entity has the right to exert control over them. The amendment ensures that future governments cannot alter laws permitting abortion up to 14 weeks into pregnancy.
Proponents of the amendment, like Green Party senator Mélanie Vogel, argue that this move is pivotal for democracy and a necessary condition for maintaining the democratic principles of the French Republic. President Emmanuel Macron hailed the decision, expressing pride in the new freedom enshrined in the Constitution. The impetus for the amendment, according to reports, was the U.S. Supreme Court’s 2022 decision in Dobbs v. Jackson, which granted states the authority to determine their abortion laws.
While France celebrates this milestone, the U.S. continues to grapple with the abortion debate, even after Supreme Court rulings. Critics contend that the sheer number of elective abortions raises moral questions, emphasizing the importance of preserving human life and exploring positive alternatives. Despite legal decisions, the choice to have a child remains a fundamental aspect, prompting reflection on the broader questions of humanity and the values individuals wish to uphold in society. Conservatives express concern about the potential repercussions of embracing ideologies that may diverge from the nation’s founding principles.
