Portuguese abortion vote: modernising Europe's social model

Portuguese Prime Minister José Socrates' decision to hold a referendum on abortion, agreed this week in a vote of the Portuguese Parliament, shows how the debate about 'social Europe' should be about modernising and extending social rights said Poul Nyrup Rasmussen, President of the Party of European Socialists. "This is a brave decision which will be applauded by people throughout Europe" said Poul Nyrup Rasmussen. "Women's rights are a cornerstone of social Europe, and Portugal is one of a few countries in Europe with very restrictive abortion laws, so it is right and proper there should be a debate and democratic vote on it."

"The debate in the European Union about 'social Europe' should not just be about reforming our social model but also about strengthening it" said the PES President. "By calling what will no doubt be a controversial referendum José Socrates is asking a very relevant question about the rights of women. Everyone says Europe's social model needs modernising - here we have a very concrete example of a Government giving its people the chance to do precisely that."

Zita Gurmai, President of PES Women, said "I strongly support José Socrates' excellent initiative. The need to extend women's rights seems to have dropped off the agenda of social Europe. Congratulations to Socrates and his Socialist Government for putting it back where it deserves to be."

"It is a refreshing contrast to the religious conservatism that is having an increasing influence on policy in other parts of the world outside Europe."

She added "I hope it creates a debate on abortion rights in other EU states where the law is very restrictive."