The recent protests in the Dominican Republic against a new criminal code that would uphold the country’s total abortion ban have sparked a heated debate on women’s rights and LGBTQ+ rights.
The Dominican Senate’s initial approval of the bill in late June has triggered outrage among activists who are demanding legal abortion under specific circumstances, such as when the woman’s life is at risk, when the pregnancy is the result of rape or incest, or in cases of fetal malformation incompatible with life.
Feminist activist Sergia Galván, who has been at the forefront of the protests, emphasized the importance of fighting for the rights of women and girls.
She believes that a criminal code should respect the autonomy of individuals and allow them to make decisions about their own bodies.
The current abortion laws in the Dominican Republic are some of the strictest in Latin America, with women facing harsh penalties for seeking abortion services, and healthcare providers facing even more severe consequences.
In addition to maintaining the total abortion ban, the new criminal code would also have negative implications for the LGBTQ+ community.
By reducing penalties for sexual violence within marriage and excluding sexual orientation from the list of characteristics protected from discrimination, the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals would be further marginalized.
Nicole Pichardo, a leader of a minority political party in the Dominican Republic, highlighted the need for a criminal code that is inclusive and respects the rights of all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
Rosalba Díaz, from the Dominican Inclusive Lesbian Community, voiced her concerns about the repercussions of the new criminal code on individuals with different sexual orientations or gender identities.
She pointed out that the exclusion of sexual orientation from protections against discrimination could increase the vulnerability of LGBTQ+ individuals and lead to constant discrimination and marginalization.
President Luis Abinader’s wavering stance on abortion decriminalization has further fueled the controversy surrounding the new criminal code.
Despite indicating his willingness to support decriminalization during his election campaigns, President Abinader has now taken a step back from this commitment, leaving activists disappointed and frustrated.
In conclusion, the protests in the Dominican Republic against the new criminal code reflect a broader struggle for women’s rights and LGBTQ+ rights in the country.
Activists are advocating for a more inclusive and progressive legal framework that respects the autonomy and dignity of all individuals.
It is imperative for the government to listen to the voices of activists and marginalized communities and to enact laws that promote equality, justice, and human rights for all.
The recent events surrounding the new criminal code in the Dominican Republic have sparked outrage and concern among women’s organizations and activists in the country.
In a statement by Galván, it was revealed that a deception had taken place where the government claimed to agree with three exceptions related to abortion, only to later reveal that it was not the case.
This betrayal has not only affected the trust of the citizens in their government but has also raised questions about the true intentions behind the changes in the criminal code.
One of the major concerns raised by Dominicans is the inclusion of an article that would exempt churches from criminal liability.
This exemption, according to activists like Galván, could potentially allow for cases of sexual abuse, money laundering, and cover-ups by religious leaders to go unpunished.
This loophole in the law has sparked fear and outrage among the population, as they worry about the potential consequences of such a provision.
Religion plays a significant role in the Dominican Republic, with the country being the only one in the world to bear a Bible on its flag. The State motto, “God, Country, and Freedom,” highlights the importance of religion in the everyday lives of Dominicans.
However, this close relationship between religion and the state has also raised concerns about the potential influence of religious institutions in shaping government policies and laws.
The inclusion of the exemption for churches in the criminal code has further fueled the debate about the separation of church and state in the Dominican Republic.
Many argue that allowing churches to be exempt from criminal liability sets a dangerous precedent and undermines the rule of law.
It raises questions about the accountability of religious institutions and the protection of their members, particularly in cases of misconduct and abuse.
The recent developments in the Dominican Republic highlight the complex relationship between religion, politics, and the law.
The deception surrounding the agreement on the three exceptions related to abortion, as well as the exemption for churches in the criminal code, has shaken the trust of the population in their government and institutions.
It has sparked a debate about the role of religion in shaping laws and policies and the need for transparency and accountability in governance.
In conclusion, the recent events in the Dominican Republic have brought to light the challenges and complexities of navigating the intersection between religion and the law.
The concerns raised by women’s organizations and activists about the deception surrounding the criminal code changes and the exemption for churches highlight the need for vigilance and transparency in the decision-making process.
It is crucial for the government to address these concerns and ensure that the rights and safety of all citizens are protected and upheld.