Vol. 81/No. 6 February 13, 2017
Protest hits midwife’s suit for religious exemption from performing abortions
According to the local press, some 300 people turned out for the action. It took place on the second day of a trial in the Labor Court, where midwife Ellinor Grimmark has sued a local government claiming discrimination. Grimmark was denied employment at three area hospitals after declaring that she would not participate in abortions, prescribe the morning-after pill or insert copper intrauterine devices.
In Sweden abortion is a legal right through the 18th week of pregnancy. Abortion and contraceptive care are covered by general health insurance and performed in hospitals or other medical facilities. Licensed doctors, nurses and midwives are obligated to provide the services as part of their profession.
Grimmark is backed legally and financially by the U.S.-based Alliance Defending Freedom. Her case is part of an international campaign by abortion opponents to pressure governments in Sweden and elsewhere in Europe to give health care workers the right to refuse to provide care based on their religion.
A district court and the “equality ombudsman” have previously ruled against Grimmark. If the Labor Court rules against her, the ADF has said it will take the case to the European Court of Human Rights in Strasbourg, France.
“We should have equal care for all in Sweden,” Dal told the rally. “The patient needs to govern, not health professionals’ religious faith.”
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