Armed Conflict: Rape

House of Lords written question – answered at on 13 February 2013.

Alert me about debates like this

Photo of Baroness Tonge Baroness Tonge Independent Liberal Democrat

To ask Her Majesty's Government what threshold they apply to the provision of abortions in contravention of national law to women raped during armed conflict; and whether that threshold is higher than those applied to other forms of assistance to the wounded and sick during armed conflicts.

Photo of Baroness Northover Baroness Northover Baroness in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip), Lords Spokesperson (Department for International Development)

In conflict situations UK-funded medical care is provided through humanitarian organisations. These organisations work according to humanitarian principles including the provision of non-discriminatory aid, provided according to need and need alone.

In conflict situations where denial of abortion in accordance with a national law prohibition would threaten the woman's or girl's life or cause unbearable suffering, international humanitarian law principles may justify offering an abortion rather than perpetuating what amounts to inhumane treatment in the form of an act of cruel treatment or torture. Clearly this will depend on the woman's choice, her condition and the safety and security of the humanitarian staff, as well as other contextual factors.

Does this answer the above question?

Yes0 people think so

No0 people think not

Would you like to ask a question like this yourself? Use our Freedom of Information site.