The National Council of Women of Malta on Monday expressed grave concern at recent media reports that abortion pills have been placed in locked boxes at a number of locations across Malta and Gozo.
Any initiative which appears to facilitate access to abortion pills in Malta raises serious concerns about respect for the law, public safety, the protection of vulnerable women, and the protection of unborn life, the council said.
The reports in the media raise serious questions about safeguards, verification, accountability, and the duty of care owed to women who may be frightened, isolated, pressured, or in crisis.
Women facing difficult or unexpected pregnancies deserve real support, not secrecy, isolation, or pills hidden in public places. Compassion must never be reduced to a coded lock box.
A truly caring society responds by surrounding women with practical, emotional, medical, and social support, while also upholding the dignity and right to life of the unborn child. NCW Malta, therefore, calls on the relevant authorities to urgently investigate the reported placement of these lock boxes and take all necessary steps to ensure that any illegal or unsafe activity is stopped.
The Council also called for clear public communication from the authorities so that women and families are not left confused or misled. NCW Malta reiterated the need for stronger, visible, and accessible support structures for pregnant women, especially those experiencing fear, poverty, pressure, abandonment, domestic violence, or lack of family support. No woman should feel that she has no option except to act alone and in secrecy, the council said.
NCW Malta said it remains firmly opposed to abortion and reaffirms its commitment to the protection of both women and unbornchildren. The Council urges all stakeholders to respond to this situation with seriousness, compassion, and respect for Malta’s legal and ethical commitment to life.