Greek women win right to choose after decades of advocacy
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In Greece, Margarita Papandreou, as president of the Union of Greek Women, spearheaded a campaign to legalize abortion that culminated in legislation passed in 1986.
Papandreou detailed in her autobiography how the organization engaged with both political and religious leaders to advance their cause. The Union of Greek Women deliberately sought a meeting with Archbishop Seraphim of Athens, anticipating opposition from the Church, and found him surprisingly receptive to acknowledging the human side of the issue.
He stated he could not issue directives opposing abortion, leaving individual clerics to follow their consciences. Before a planned demonstration in Athens, Papandreou informed Andreas Papandreou, then Prime Minister, of the Union’s intent. He supported their action, telling her to “do what you have to do.” The demonstration brought together women from across Greece, who marched to Parliament and delivered a petition.
Shortly after, the PASOK party announced it would introduce a bill to legalize abortion, scheduling the vote after upcoming elections. The campaign ultimately succeeded when the law 1609/1986, legalizing abortion and protecting women’s health, was published in the official government gazette.
