Abortion in Cameroon

Abortion in Cameroon: Discover the laws surrounding it, and the legal rights of women seeking abortion in Cameroon.

Abortion is a sensitive and complex topic that evokes strong emotions and raises important legal and ethical questions. In this complete guide, we will explore the context of abortion in Cameroon, including the laws surrounding it, women’s rights, and the available support for those facing this difficult decision. By providing valuable information, we aim to offer a comprehensive resource for individuals seeking knowledge on abortion in Cameroon.

What is Abortion in Cameroon?

In Cameroon, abortion generally refers to the termination of a pregnancy in the country. It involves the deliberate removal or expulsion of the fetus from the uterus before it is capable of surviving outside the womb. Abortion can be performed through various methods, including medical procedures or the use of medications, depending on the stage of pregnancy and the availability of healthcare services.

Generally, Abortion in Cameroon is governed by the Penal Code, Law No. 2016/007, Chapter 4 (Children and the Family), Sections 337 to 339.

Legal Status of Abortion in Cameroon

In Cameroon, the Penal Code criminalizes abortion except when the life of the pregnant woman is in immediate danger. This restrictive law forces women to seek clandestine and often unsafe procedures, putting their lives at risk. The legal framework surrounding abortion in Cameroon has been a subject of debate, with advocates calling for reforms to protect women’s reproductive rights and improve access to safe abortion services. The specific circumstances under which abortion is permitted can vary, and the interpretation and enforcement of these laws may differ.

The Cameroon Penal Code prohibits abortion except in three specific situations:

• When the woman’s life is at risk: Requires approval from two medical experts.
• To preserve the woman’s physical or mental health: This is open to interpretation and requires medical professional approval.
• In cases of rape or incest: Requires a legal certificate from prosecutors.

See Section 339 of the Cameroon Penal Code.

Reasons for Abortion

Understanding the reasons why women seek abortions is crucial for addressing the issue effectively. In Cameroon, several factors contribute to the high rate of abortions, including:

• Unplanned pregnancies: Lack of access to contraception, inadequate sex education, and cultural barriers contribute to unintended pregnancies, leading some women to consider abortion as their only option.
• Socio-economic factors: Poverty, unemployment, and limited resources can make it difficult for women to provide for themselves and their families, leading them to opt for abortion due to financial constraints.
• Health risks: Some women may face health complications during pregnancy, which pose a threat to their well-being. In such cases, they may choose abortion to protect their health and prevent potential harm.

Implications for Women’s Health

Unsafe abortions pose significant risks to women’s health and well-being. In Cameroon, where access to safe abortion services is limited, many women resort to unsafe methods performed by untrained individuals, increasing the likelihood of complications such as hemorrhage, infection, and even death. The lack of post-abortion care exacerbates these risks, leading to long-term health consequences for women.

The Role of Comprehensive Solutions

Addressing the issue of abortion in Cameroon requires a comprehensive approach that considers legal, healthcare, and socio-cultural factors. Here are some key areas that need attention:

• a) Legal reforms: Advocacy efforts should focus on decriminalizing abortion or expanding the circumstances under which it is legally permissible. This would protect women’s reproductive rights and reduce the risks associated with unsafe procedures.
• b) Access to safe abortion services: Expanding access to safe and legal abortion services is crucial to reduce maternal mortality and morbidity rates. This includes training healthcare providers, ensuring the availability of appropriate medical facilities, and destigmatizing abortion within society.
• c) Comprehensive sexuality education: Implementing comprehensive sexuality education programs in schools and communities can help empower individuals with knowledge about reproductive health, contraception, and the consequences of unsafe abortion. This would contribute to reducing unintended pregnancies and the need for abortions.
• d) Support for vulnerable populations: Providing social support systems, economic empowerment, and access to healthcare for vulnerable populations, such as low-income women and teenagers, can significantly reduce the occurrence of unwanted pregnancies and abortions.
• e) Post-abortion care: Strengthening post-abortion care services is crucial to address the health complications arising from unsafe abortions. This includes ensuring access to medical treatment, counseling, and contraception to prevent future unintended pregnancies.

Punishment for Abortion Under the Cameroon Penal Code

The Cameroon Penal Code has laid out sanctions for both the woman and the accessory or healthcare professional who carries out an abortion. The penalties include:

1. The woman:

Any woman procuring or consenting to her own abortion shall be punished with imprisonment for from 15 (fifteen) days to 1 (one) year or with fine of from CFAF 5 000 (five thousand) to CFAF 200 000 (two hundred thousand) or with both such imprisonment and fine.

2. The Accessory or Healthcare Professional

Whoever procures the abortion of a woman, notwithstanding her consent, shall be punished with imprisonment for from 1 (one) to 5 (five) years and with fine of from CFAF 100 000 (one hundred thousand) to CFAF 2 000 000 (two million).

The penalties prescribed by subsection (2) above shall be doubled where the offender:

• (a) Engages habitually in abortion, or
• (b) Practises the profession of medicine or an allied profession.

In the circumstances where the person practices the profession of medicine, the Court may also order closure of the professional premises and impose a ban on his occupation.

Women’s Rights and Reproductive Health

Understanding women’s rights and reproductive health is crucial when discussing abortion. It is important to highlight that women in Cameroon have the right to make decisions about their own bodies and reproductive choices. This includes access to comprehensive sexual and reproductive health services, including family planning and safe abortion services when legal.

Safe Abortion Services and Support

While legal restrictions on abortion exist in Cameroon, it is essential to emphasize the importance of safe abortion practices. Unsafe abortions can pose significant risks to women’s health and well-being. Women facing unintended pregnancies should seek professional medical advice and support from trained healthcare providers and organizations that offer confidential and non-judgmental counseling services.

Addressing Stigma and Promoting Dialogue

Abortion remains a stigmatized topic in many societies, including Cameroon. It is essential to foster open and respectful dialogue that promotes understanding, empathy, and destigmatization. By challenging misconceptions and providing accurate information, we can contribute to a more supportive environment for individuals facing decisions related to abortion.

Social and cultural attitudes toward abortion in Cameroon

Social and cultural attitudes toward abortion in Cameroon are complex and diverse, influenced by a variety of factors:

• Religion: The influence of the Catholic Church, which opposes abortion, is significant. However, other religious groups hold different views.
• Tradition and Culture: Traditional beliefs and practices regarding pregnancy and childbirth can influence attitudes towards abortion.
• Individual Values and Experiences: Personal beliefs, morals, and life experiences shape individual stances on abortion.
• Gender Roles and Inequality: Societal expectations of women and gender inequality can contribute to stigma around abortion.
• Economic Factors: Poverty and limited access to resources can lead women to seek unsafe abortions.
• Lack of awareness and information: Limited access to accurate information about reproductive health and abortion can create misconceptions and biases.

Experiences of Different Groups Affected by Abortion Law in Cameroon

Women:

• Struggles to access safe abortion: Face long procedures, stigma, and fear of prosecution despite legal exceptions.
• Forced to seek unsafe options: High rates of unsafe abortions contribute to maternal mortality and health complications.
• Psychological impact: Guilt, shame, and fear associated with seeking abortions, both safe and unsafe.
• Economic burden: Costs associated with travel, procedures, and potential health complications.

Healthcare providers:

• Moral dilemmas: Torn between professional ethics and personal beliefs, sometimes leading to refusal of services.
• Lack of training and resources: Limited capacity to perform legal abortions, especially in rural areas.
• Fear of prosecution: Legal ambiguity creates anxiety and potential legal repercussions for providing abortion services.
• Burnout and emotional stress: Witnessing the negative consequences of restricted access takes a toll on providers.

Advocates:

• Facing opposition and resistance: Difficulty in raising awareness and mobilizing support due to strong opposition from conservative groups.
• Resource limitations: Limited funding and organizational capacity restrict the reach and impact of advocacy efforts.
• Personal risks: Potential harassment, intimidation, and even threats for campaigning for reform.
• Hope and determination: Driven by the desire to improve women’s health and rights, despite the challenges.

Research Questions on Abortion in Cameroon

• Abortion in Cameroon: The legal framework and its interpretation.
• The accessibility of safe abortion services.
• Social and cultural attitudes toward abortion.
• The experiences of women seeking abortion care.
• Efforts to reform the abortion law.
• Legal arguments for and against abortion restrictions.
• Religious and cultural viewpoints on abortion.
• Public health and safety implications of restrictive laws.
• The experiences of different groups affected by the abortion law, such as women, healthcare providers, and advocates.

Conclusion

In conclusion, abortion remains a contentious issue in Cameroon, with significant implications for women’s health and well-being. To address this complex problem, comprehensive solutions are necessary, including legal reforms, improved access to safe abortion services, comprehensive sexuality education, support for vulnerable populations, and robust post-abortion care. By adopting a multi-faceted approach, Cameroon can protect women’s reproductive rights, reduce maternal mortality, and promote a society that values women’s health and well-being. Contact us if you have any questions or need any legal assistance on conducting abortion in Cameroon.

References

• https://reproductiverights.org/maps/provision/cameroons-abortion-provisions/