adOct 16, 2026, 10:19

Health Minister Hermans after SGP motion: Parties are attacking abortion rights, I will continue to defend them

Health Minister Sophie Hermans is facing criticism and a motion of disapproval from the SGP for refusing to stop an exploration into abortion procedures performed between 22 and 24 weeks of pregnancy. Hermans maintains that the project is legal and necessary, despite the political fallout that threatens the SGP's support for the government's budget.

Minister of Health Sophie Hermans has affirmed her commitment to upholding the legal right to abortion in the Netherlands. Her stance follows a motion of disapproval submitted by the SGP, a political party that opposes a government exploration into abortion procedures conducted between 22 and 24 weeks of pregnancy. While the current law allows abortions up to 24 weeks, the SGP argues that the government’s ongoing assessment is effectively expanding current practices. Hermans has firmly rejected calls to halt the project, stating that the exploration remains strictly within the bounds of existing legislation and does not alter any medical or legal criteria. The disagreement has strained the relationship between the government and the SGP, which is a key partner for the cabinet's parliamentary majority. As the SGP threatens to vote against the healthcare budget due to this dispute, Hermans has emphasized the importance of separating policy debates from fiscal negotiations, highlighting that her budget also includes significant social investments for vulnerable children.

Politics Health Netherlands

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Based on reporting by ad. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.

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