Dutch minister: National ban on abortion protests unnecessary

That is reported by the Dutch daily Nederlands Dagblad. Although the Dutch minister acknowledges that women can feel intimidated by the pro-life activists when visiting an abortion clinic, he says that local authorities have the power to decide to ban demonstrations or implement buffer zones.

Progressive politicians have asked for national legislation dealing with pro-life protests, the Nederlands Dagblad writes. Currently, municipalities decide whether the demonstrations are allowed. In some places, pro-life activists can only protest in certain spots. In contrast, in other towns, the activists can demonstrate in front of the door of an abortion clinic. National rules are necessary, some liberal politicians argue.

Careful not to violate demonstration right

But minister Kuipers disagrees. He finds that context should play an essential role in deciding whether or not the demonstrations are allowed. “Demonstrations, including abortion demonstrations, cannot be compared one on one”, he writes.

According to Kuipers, intimidation of pregnant women should always be condemned. “I consider that as an unwanted situation.” However, people in the Netherlands also have the right to demonstrate, and Kuipers does not want to violate that right. “The authorities have to do their best to accommodate protests in locations where the target group can see and hear it. This right also applies to protests that show despicable expressions.”

The Dutch association of Abortion Doctors denounces the abortion demonstrations, the Nederlands Dagblad writes. The association does not notice an increase in the number of protests, but they do take place on a weekly basis.