Opinion: Keep abortion out of the constitution

An opinion piece published in Dagens Nyheter argues strongly against enshrining the right to abortion in Sweden's constitution. The author, Sara Höglund, contends that such a move is unnecessary given the broad societal support for abortion rights in Sweden and views the proposal primarily as a reaction to political developments elsewhere in the world.

Höglund emphasizes that the constitution should serve as a repository for principles considered timeless and stable, independent of the ruling political party. She draws a parallel with the U.S. Second Amendment regarding the right to bear arms, which was enacted in a different historical context and now presents significant challenges in contemporary society. The author suggests that what was once seen as progressive can become a hindrance to future necessary changes.

While acknowledging that abortion rights are widely accepted in contemporary Sweden, Höglund cautions against assuming that future generations will share the same views or scientific understanding. She points to significant advancements in areas like in vitro fertilization (IVF) and neonatal care, suggesting that these developments might warrant future adjustments to abortion legislation. Entrenching current laws in the constitution, she argues, could prove shortsighted.

Instead of constitutionalizing abortion, Höglund advocates for a unified defense of fundamental principles such as individual rights, freedom, and security. She expresses confidence in younger generations' ability to make wise interpretations of laws and adapt them to evolving societal needs and scientific knowledge, urging a focus on these enduring values rather than locking current practices into the constitution.

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In light of the significant development that has occurred in recent years in areas such as in vitro fertilization and neonatal care, it is not unreasonable that the future will wish for certain adjustments to the legislation that was drafted when the situation was different.