Poland’s Kaczynski Calls for Ban on Abortion Even in Cases of Rape

WARSAW, Poland — Poland’s ruling party leader Jaroslaw Kaczynski on Tuesday proposed a total ban on abortion, including in cases of rape or incest, saying the procedure is “always a murder of a child.”

Kaczynski, the head of the conservative Law and Justice party, made the remarks during a campaign event ahead of the Oct. 13 parliamentary election. Poland already has one of the strictest abortion laws in Europe, allowing the procedure only in cases of rape, incest or when the woman’s health is threatened. Kaczynski said his party would introduce legislation to ban abortion entirely, with the only exception being when the woman’s life is in danger.

“We want to introduce a law that will protect life from conception, including in cases of rape and incest. Because every child, regardless of the circumstances of its conception, has the right to life,” Kaczynski said.

The proposal drew immediate criticism from women’s rights groups and opposition parties, who argued it would force women to seek illegal abortions or travel abroad. Poland’s strict abortion law already prompts thousands of women to seek the procedure in other European countries each year.

Kaczynski’s statement comes as the ruling party seeks to mobilize its conservative base ahead of the election, where it faces a challenge from the centrist Civic Platform party.

Jaroslaw Kaczynski speaks at a campaign rally

Jaroslaw Kaczynski speaking at a campaign event in Warsaw.

Protesters holding signs against abortion ban

Protesters gathered outside the parliament building in Warsaw.

Warsaw

Warsaw, the capital of Poland, is a city with a resilient history that was nearly destroyed during World War II, particularly after the 1944 Warsaw Uprising. Following the war, its historic Old Town was meticulously reconstructed using paintings and pre-war photographs, earning it a UNESCO World Heritage designation. Today, Warsaw is a vibrant cultural and economic hub, blending modern skyscrapers with meticulously restored historical architecture.

Poland

Poland is a Central European country with a rich and complex history, having been a major power in the 16th century before disappearing from the map for 123 years due to partitions. It regained independence in 1918, endured devastating occupation during World War II, and later emerged as a key member of the European Union. Today, Poland is known for its resilient culture, historic cities like Kraków and Warsaw, and landmarks such as the medieval Malbork Castle and the Auschwitz-Birkenau memorial.

Europe

Europe is a continent with a rich and complex history, shaped by ancient civilizations like Greece and Rome, the Middle Ages, and major world events such as the Renaissance, the Industrial Revolution, and both World Wars. It is home to countless cultural sites, from the Colosseum in Rome to the Eiffel Tower in Paris, reflecting its diverse artistic, architectural, and political heritage. Today, Europe is known for its blend of historical traditions and modern innovation, with many of its cities serving as global centers for culture and commerce.