GENEVA, 14.11.2025—In a newly released report, a government-appointed expert group has recommended comprehensive reform of Scotland’s abortion law, including decriminalisation and access to abortion on request up to 24 weeks. If the recommended reforms are adopted, they will represent a decisive step towards aligning Scottish law with international human rights and public health standards.

Although abortion care is available in Scotland, it is not legal on a woman’s request, and seeking or providing abortion care outside legal pathways remains a criminal offence. The expert group noted that the outdated legal framework on abortion perpetuates harmful stigma and stereotypes, and creates a chilling effect on the provision of abortion care.

Scotland is among the few remaining jurisdictions in Europe that have not legalised abortion on request, which is now the norm across the region.  

“These important recommendations present a clear pathway forward,” said Adriana Lamačková, Associate Director for Europe at the Center for Reproductive Rights. “The Scottish Government now has a historic opportunity to modernise its abortion law, enable women to make their own decisions about their pregnancies, and ensure they can no longer be punished for seeking essential reproductive care.”

The Abortion Law Review Expert Group was established by the Scottish Government in 2024 and tasked with assessing the current regulation of abortion and making recommendations for reform. The Group comprises leading figures in law, medicine and public health, as well as civil society representatives.

International human rights mechanisms and the World Health Organization have repeatedly emphasised the importance of decriminalising abortion and legalising abortion on request.

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