Up until the 1970s, abortions were generally punishable by law in Austria. Women who wanted to end an unwanted pregnancy often had to travel abroad or secretly resort to dangerous methods. Only after long political struggles was a reform implemented. Today, Austria has what is known as the "time limit solution" – but the debate over rights, access, and care is far from over.
For many decades, the Austrian Criminal Code provided for abortions fundamentally under penalty. The basis was the so-called §144 German Criminal Code, who banned abortions. Both the women themselves, as well as doctors, could end up in court for it.
Many abortions therefore took place in secret. Women resorted to unsafe methods or traveled to countries with more liberal laws. This was a great risk, especially for poorer women. Feminist groups and parts of the political left criticized this situation early on: a ban would not prevent abortions, but merely make them more dangerous.
The women's movement of the 1970s
In the late 1960s and early 1970s, pressure on politics grew. The new women's movement organized demonstrations, campaigns, and public debates. Activists demanded the right to, self To decide about one's own body.
A central role was played by the slogan:
„My belly belongs to me“,
...which was adopted from the international women's movement. Female doctors, lawyers, and parts of the Social Democracy also supported the demand for reform.
The 1975 deadline solution
In 1975, the government under SPÖ Chancellor Bruno Kreisky finally, the so-called deadline solution. Since then, the rule is: while abortion remains formally in the criminal code, it is not punishable if it is carried out within the first three months and medical counseling is provided.
I have always told my people that the deadline solution is not a compromise solution.
Additionally, the law permits abortions later if medical reasons present – for example when the mother's life in danger or severe health problems are detected with the fetus. The reform triggered fierce political conflicts at the time. Conservative parties and parts of the Catholic Church strongly protested the new regulation.
SPÖ, Greens, and NEOS in favor, ÖVP and FPÖ against: Political divisions persist to this day
Even today, the political line in Austria remains relatively clear. Progressive parties such Social Democratic Party of Austria, Green and partly NEOS generally advocate for easier access to abortion. They call for, for example:
- more public services in hospitals
- better medical care in all federal states
- Health insurance cost coverage
Conservative parties such as Austrian People's Party and especially the Freedom Party of Austria They are usually more skeptical of more liberal regulations. They place greater emphasis on the protection of unborn life and often reject further liberalization. Religious organizations and Catholic initiatives also continue to advocate against abortions.
Abortion in Austria: Legally Permitted, but Often Practically Difficult
Although abortions are not subject to punishment in Austria within the time limits, access remains in many places difficult. Public hospitals rarely perform abortions. In some states, there are only a few doctors who offer the procedure. That is why many women have to travel long distances or go to private facilities.
The costs are usually between 400 and 800 Euros and are generally not covered by health insurance companies. Women's rights organizations have been criticizing this for years: While the "Fristenlösung" (time limit solution) guarantees a legal right, it does not yet ensure comprehensive access.
