Abortion laws vary significantly around the world

Abortion laws vary significantly around the world, with some countries allowing the procedure under broad circumstances and others imposing strict restrictions. Here are a few countries where abortion is legal and accessible:

1. Canada
   In Canada, abortion is legal at all stages of pregnancy and is funded by the government under the Canada Health Act. There are no legal restrictions on abortion, making it one of the most liberal countries in terms of reproductive rights.

2. United Kingdom
   In the United Kingdom, abortion is legal up to 24 weeks of pregnancy under the Abortion Act 1967. The procedure can be carried out beyond 24 weeks if there are serious risks to the woman's health or if there are severe fetal abnormalities.

3. Australia
   Australia's abortion laws vary by state, but generally, abortion is legal and accessible. For example, in Victoria, abortion is legal up to 24 weeks, and beyond that if two doctors agree that it is appropriate. Other states have similar provisions.

4. Sweden
   Sweden allows abortion on request up to 18 weeks of pregnancy. After 18 weeks, abortions can be performed if there are special circumstances, and approval from the National Board of Health and Welfare is required.

5. France
   In France, abortion is legal up to 14 weeks of pregnancy. The procedure is available on request, and beyond 14 weeks, it can be performed if two doctors certify that it is necessary to protect the woman's health or if the fetus has a severe condition.

6. South Africa
   South Africa has one of the most liberal abortion laws in Africa. The Choice on Termination of Pregnancy Act allows abortion on request up to 12 weeks of pregnancy. Between 13 and 20 weeks, abortion is permitted under certain conditions, such as socioeconomic reasons or if the pregnancy poses a risk to the woman's health.

7. Netherlands
   In the Netherlands, abortion is legal up to 24 weeks of pregnancy. The procedure is available on request, and there are no mandatory waiting periods, making it one of the most accessible countries for abortion services.

8. New Zealand
   New Zealand legalized abortion in 2020, allowing the procedure up to 20 weeks of pregnancy. After 20 weeks, abortion is permitted if it is necessary to save the woman's life or to prevent serious harm to her physical or mental health.

9. India
   India permits abortion up to 20 weeks of pregnancy under the Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act. The law allows abortion for a variety of reasons, including risk to the woman's life, physical or mental health, fetal abnormalities, and contraceptive failure.

10. Uruguay
    Uruguay allows abortion on request up to 12 weeks of pregnancy. The law requires a five-day reflection period and counseling before the procedure can be carried out.