Avorter : pratique universelle et transculturelle. Le combat des femmes argentines dans la légalisation de l’avortement

Abstract

The legal implications of abortion worldwide do not confer the same rights or conditions on women. Although abortion has been practiced for centuries in all societies, it remains highly unequal in legislative terms throughout the world. This article traces the historical, socio-cultural and political contexts in which decisions to criminalize and decriminalize abortion have been made, particularly in Argentina. Representations of the status of the fetus and of women's social condition that have been developed by each society, provide additional insight into the issues surrounding this universal and transcultural practice. The female body, and its procreative function, correspond to the interests of state policies. The fight by Argentinian women to legalize abortion is an example of rebellion against the weight of patriarchal traditions.