Dr. Gilda Sedgh:

On the variations in abortion rates across countries or the extremes, I am not interested in a systematic analysis or assessment of what explains the differences in abortion rates across countries. I am aware of research within some countries which indicates that the rate of unintended pregnancies and abortion is higher among minority and disadvantaged women, or women whose access to contraceptive, family planning and reproductive health services might be compromised. It is possible these inequities are more pronounced in some countries than in others. It is also possible the proportion of women who face these barriers or who are disadvantaged in some way is higher in some of these countries than in others. I am uncomfortable in even going there because I am speaking a little beyond the evidence. I am starting with evidence and speculating based on it. Otherwise, I do not know that I can explain well or find evidence to explain the differentials.

I take the point about Germany. These are broad categories with respect to abortion laws in various countries. On the whole, Germany is classified as allowing abortion on broad grounds, as is the United States. In some countries, including these two, restrictions are enacted, including counselling requirements, waiting periods, etc., which allow for cause degradation across countries in which abortion is allowed on broad grounds with respect to ease of access to legal abortion. However, I take the Deputy's point.