Group claims Maltese abortion law violates convention against torture

The International Commission of Jurists (ICJ) has submitted a report to the UN Human Rights Council that accuses Malta of violating the Convention Against Torture and other alleged obligations because Maltese law prohibits abortion.  The ICJ describes itself as “60 eminent judges and lawyers from all regions of the world” that “promotes and protects human rights through the Rule of Law, by using its unique legal expertise to develop and strengthen national and international justice systems.”  The same general claim was made this month by the UN Human Rights Special Rapporteur on torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment.

 

Australian physicians unwilling to provide late term psychosocial abortions

A former health services commissioner who was among those behind the passage of a controversial abortion law in the State of Victoria is complaining that the law is “being thwarted at the service provision level.”  Her concern focuses on women seeking late term abortions – apparently 16 through 24 weeks gestation and beyond.  Physicians are reported to be willing to provide late term abortions only for eugenic reasons, but about 70 women annually ask for late term abortions for “psychosocial reasons.”  Another factor reducing availability appears to be the need to give priority to devote health care resources to addressing illness and other health problems over “psychosocial” issues.  One clinical advisor has suggested that this could be rectified by a regulation requiring that abortion be given legal priority. [The Age]

Appeal hearing on legalization of physician assisted suicide

An appeal against the judgement of the BC Supreme Court in Carter v. Canada (which found in favour of physician assisted suicide and the judge ordered Canada to change the law to permit it) is now underway.

The following link provides a live-feed from the BC Court of Appeal and links to the factums filed by the parties and intervenors.

British Columbia Court of Appeal live stream

Michigan protection of conscience bill passes senate commitee

Senate Bill 136 has been approved by the Michigan Senate Health Policy Committee and will move to a vote in the state senate.  The bill provides protection for health care payers, purchasers, providers, and institutions.  A Michigan Radio report incorrectly states that the bill requires referral by objecting health care workers.

Philippines Supreme Court suspends controversial Reproductive Health Law

The Philippines RH Act, which was to go into effect on 31 May, has been temporarily suspended by a 10-5 ruling of the Philippines Supreme Court.  The court will hear arguments for and against the law on 18 June, 2013.  The ruling is a result of nine petitions against the law filed in the court.  The petitioners are

[Manila Bulletin]