Summarised by Centrist
The current trend sees an average of nearly 45 abortions per day in New Zealand.
Family First is concerned over the significant rise following its decriminalisation in March 2020.
There has been a 25% increase in abortions since the end of 2019 when the number was just 12,948 to 16,214 in 2023—the highest since 2011.
The group notes the growing use of medical abortions, citing a report that reveals 221 cases of complications in 2022, up from 161 the previous year—a nearly 40% increase.
These complications range from haemorrhaging to failed abortions, with a majority occurring in medical abortions, sparking concerns about safety and follow-up care.
Family First asserts that New Zealand’s abortion law overlooks the humanity of unborn children and contradicts existing legislation and public health messages supporting foetal rights.