Abortion: The Problem of its Legalization in Timor-Leste

Research Article

Abstract

Introduction: This article aims to address abortion in general and the existing abortion modalities in Timor-Leste.  Thus, abortion is defined as the interruption of the pregnant woman with the destruction of the product of conception of the human relationship. Abortion can be classified into two models, such as spontaneous and induced abortion.

Objective:  To hold analyses and examine abortion and the problem of its legalisation in the context of the institution and cultural aspect in Timor-Leste. 

Methodology: We used the deductive methodology in this elaboration, because all the research is done through the library and other references were consulted on the internet as an auxiliary means.  

Discussion: In spontaneous terms and when the abortion happens naturally and the induced is when the pregnant woman is interrupted by the will of the woman or mother. For many, the possibility of having an abortion is not fully supported by the legal system and the Catholic religion. Therefore, each place has its own process and seeks to solve it in a way that is more appropriate to the environment in which it lives, not forgetting that the laws are the same instruments of implementation. Thus, this study is to discuss the legal aspects of the legality of abortion according to the Penal Codes and Constitution of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste (CRDTL) in force.

Conclusion: The criminalization of abortion is related, historically, as social, political, religious and economic interests depending on the time and locality, in addition to being adequate also with the cultural understanding of what it is to be a woman, the meaning of pregnancy and the baby, in a public health condition cited by (Tilman CB & Araújo A.  N, 2023).