Yemen is a country located in the Arabian Peninsula that has been undergoing political turmoil for many years. One issue that continues to be a point of contention is the legal status of abortion. According to Islamic law, abortion is forbidden except in cases where the mother's life is in danger.
There are still many factors that come into play when determining whether an abortion is allowed.
If a pregnancy was conceived outside of marriage, the woman may be pressured to have an abortion by her husband in order to avoid social stigma.
Some families may force their daughters to get an abortion if they believe it will bring shame to the family.
In Yemen, marriages are often arranged and women are expected to adhere to strict gender roles within the home. This can lead to tensions between religious law, personal desire, and marital negotiation when it comes to issues such as abortion. Women who want an abortion but do not have their husband's approval face significant challenges. They must navigate both cultural expectations and their own desires without risking familial or societal repercussions.
Abortion practices in Yemen reflect these tensions, and they vary depending on the situation. In cases where the father does not want the child, he may threaten to divorce his wife unless she gets an abortion. On the other hand, some husbands may agree to allow an abortion if they feel that they cannot financially support another child. Regardless of the circumstances, getting an abortion in Yemen is dangerous and illegal, so many women resort to unsafe methods that can cause serious health complications or even death.
Abortion laws in Yemen are complex and heavily influenced by culture and religion. While the legal status of abortion is clear, the reality on the ground is much more nuanced. Women in Yemen continue to struggle with balancing their personal desires with societal expectations, putting themselves at risk in the process.
How do abortion practices in Yemen reflect tensions between religious law, personal desire, and marital negotiation?
The practice of abortion in Yemen is not only influenced by religious laws but also reflects personal desires and marital negotiations. According to research studies conducted in 2019, nearly half of the women in Yemen have experienced abortion at least once in their life. These numbers show that abortions are not uncommon among women in this country.