Although abortion is legal in north Cyprus, the service is not being provided in public hospitals: Human Rights Foundation Highlights

Lefkosia, Cyprus (August 1, 2025) — The Cypriot Turkish Human Rights Foundation has raised serious concerns regarding the unavailability of abortion services in public hospitals in the northern part of Cyprus, despite the procedure being legal. 

The foundation emphasized that women without financial means are effectively denied access to this basic healthcare service.

In a written statement, the foundation underlined that health is not only a personal necessity but a core social right, recognized as one of the most fundamental human rights. It called attention to the state’s responsibility to ensure that healthcare is equitable, accessible, and free of charge for all citizens.

“Access to healthcare extends beyond medical treatment,” the statement noted. “It also includes access to health-related information, clean drinking water, sanitary environmental conditions, nutritious food, and free essential medication during treatment.”

The foundation criticized the global trend toward the privatization of healthcare systems, warning that such shifts turn healthcare into a commercial enterprise, thus undermining the principle of universal access to health services.

Citing Article 45 of the Constitution of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), the foundation reminded that the state is obligated to ensure every individual can live in physical and mental well-being and receive medical care. However, it pointed out that access to health services in Northern Cyprus faces significant obstacles today.

Regarding reproductive rights, the foundation referenced the Public Health Employees Law (Law No. 6/2009) and the Cyprus Turkish Medical Association’s Code of Medical Ethics, which collectively recognize a woman's right to terminate a pregnancy up to the 10th week. Nonetheless, the foundation stated that public hospitals have not provided abortion services for a considerable period.

“It is unclear why the state has failed to offer this legally sanctioned service,” the statement read. “Currently, abortion is only available in private hospitals, leaving women with limited financial resources unable to exercise this right.”

The foundation warned that financially disadvantaged women may resort to unsafe and illegal abortion methods, putting their lives at risk. It called on authorities to recognize access to reproductive healthcare as a core human right and take immediate legislative steps to secure this right for all women.

The statement concluded by urging the development of modern, inclusive, and accessible reproductive health policies that protect women’s rights and ensure their access to safe medical procedures.