Abstract

The paper focuses on the causes and the consequences of conscientious objection in the field of voluntary termination of pregnancy and is based on the analysis of existing literature, desk research. Almost fifty years after the enactment of law 198/78, which regulated voluntary termination of pregnancy and provided for conscientious objection, Italy shows very high percentages of objectors who may constitute an obstacle to the effective enforceability of the right to terminate a pregnancy. The reasons behind the choice to object are manifold. One of the main reasons is rooted in the ethical-religious dimension and the influence that Catholicism continues to have in shaping individual choices. However, this motivation is accompanied by others stemming from different causes, including the social stigma against those who perform abortions; the professionals’ perception of performing a less valued job; the high workload that non-objectors accumulate to compensate for staff shortages; and economic reasons, as in Italy abortion is a practice that cannot be performed on a private basis within the public healthcare system and therefore is not financially rewarding. Understanding the motivations behind the choice to object by healthcare personnel is of fundamental importance in adopting policies aimed at removing obstacles that undermine access to voluntary abortion