Der Diskurs um § 218 StGB seit der deutschen Wiedervereinigung – Geschichtliche, rechtliche und ethische Aspekte des Schwangerschaftsabbruchs

Abortion continues to be a highly contentious issue. This article provides an overview of the historical, ethical, and legal aspects of the abortion debate in Germany with a focus on the developments since the reunification. It delves into the background of the 1995 reform of the German abortion law, which centers around mandatory counseling before having an abortion. Furthermore, it outlines the implications of the medical indication for abortion and legal areas of tension. In light of the emerging shift in the status of abortion from a prohibited act under criminal law to a reproductive right, the article presents various legal viewpoints and practical considerations in the ongoing discussion.