“Don’t tell us to talk about it more, when we are talking about it – we are shouting loud – at doors that are sealed shut with you behind them holding the pen. Don’t tell us about your discomfort. Consider hers.”

“Tell us what you will do to change the situation,” the Voice for Choice Coalition said while addressing Prime Minister Robert Abela.

This came about after a vulnerable woman, in an abusive relationship, responsibly decided to end her pregnancy, and was reported for this decision by her abusive partner.

“The state has once again failed another woman, who was victimised twice – once by her partner, and then by the state’s violence, which prosecuted her for an act which should have never been criminalised,” stated the coalition activists.

“Who will be criminalised next for their choice? Are you comfortable with the possibility of having a friend, sister, or daughter criminalised?”

The coalition, composed of several groups and activists, also emphasised how the latest, scandalous case completely negates the argument that the present law on abortion is not enforced.

Indeed, this case is a clear example of how the state and the law place anyone who can give birth in a position of vulnerability.

“Enough empty rhetoric of debates and discomfort. We demand action, we demand legislative and policy changes, and we demand them now.”

Do you think Maltese women deserve better?