Health Minister rules out further extension of abortion limit

The Danish Parliament has passed a law increasing the abortion limit for the first time in over 50 years, effective June 1, 2025. Health Minister Sophie Løhde considers the new limit of 18 weeks a balanced agreement that maintains a significant distance from the 22-week viability criterion. The law was passed with a majority vote, with 74 in favor and 29 against. The decision follows recommendations by the Danish Ethical Council in 2023. Additionally, a new national abortion council will replace the regional councils to unify practices and will be operational from July 1, 2025. A further agreement allows 15-17-year-olds to have an abortion without parental consent. Both the Minister and Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen support the new rules as a progressive step for women’s rights in Denmark.