Argentina: Abortion access is dwindling under President Javier Milei three years after legalization

Argentina is currently experiencing a critical shortage of abortion supplies due to the policies instated by President Javier Milei, who halted the procurement of necessary medications such as misoprostol and mifepristone. Since the initiation of his administration, these interruptions have impeded timely access to safe abortion procedures for women across the country. Reports indicate that even though the legal framework for abortion was established three years prior, the absence of these essential materials has created numerous barriers for women seeking services. Women like María, who faced complications during previous pregnancies, found themselves without adequate support or resources. Despite efforts to inquire about options at local hospitals, they were met with unavailability of supplies and information. The situation is corroborated by public health officials, who have acknowledged the ongoing shortages and expressed intentions to restore supplies in the near future. The implications of the government's actions have been dire, leading to potential health crises as women are left with limited choices. This withdrawal from supplying essential health services correlates with a rise in unsafe abortions, which pose significant risks to maternal health. The importance of maintaining accessible healthcare, including safe abortion services, is underscored by the positive impact legal availability has had on reducing maternal mortality rates in prior years. Advocacy groups, including Amnesty International, stress that maintaining access to these services is vital for public health and women's rights.