More than 48,000 people have put their name to the ‘Law in support of maternity and paternity – of the right to be born’ legislative initiative, among them prominent names from the fields of teaching, journalism, health and law.
A total of 48,115 people gave their backing to the movement, far exceeding the 35,000 signatures needed for matters to be brought before parliament.
Promoted by the ‘Right to be Born’ platform, the committee backing the movement was received by Parliament on Wednesday where it intended to hand over signatures gathered and “therefore begin the process which will lead to voting” on the law change in Parliament.
José Maria Seabra Duque, one of the initiative’s main promoters, said the high number of signatures gathered since 5 October showed a “clear popular will” that the “abortion law cannot continue as it is.”
Among the “most relevant measures” foreseen by the draft bill is more support for families, for maternity and paternity within professional and social spheres, more social support for pregnant woman who are at risk of aborting, and promoting the father’s support of the pregnant woman.