• Press Release

Historic Ireland abortion referendum victory sends message of hope around the world

May 26, 2018

DUBLIN, IRELAND - MAY 26: A young woman walks past art work featuring Savita Halappanavar which states 'Never Again' as the results in the Irish referendum on the 8th amendment concerning the country's abortion laws takes place at Dublin Castle on May 26, 2018 in Dublin, Ireland. Savita Halappanavar who became the symbol of the Yes campaign to repeal the 8th amendment, died aged 32, due to complications following a septic miscarriage in Galway in 2012. Voters in Ireland went to the polls yesterday to decide whether to abolish or keep the 8th amendment, which makes it illegal for a woman to have an abortion in the country unless in circumstances where her life is at risk. Exit polls have indicated that the Yes vote has won by a landslide majority. (Photo by Charles McQuillan/Getty Images)
Reacting to news of the victory for the “Yes” campaign in Ireland’s referendum on abortion, Colm O Gorman, Executive Director of Amnesty International Ireland said:

“While the final count is not yet confirmed, it has been formally announced as ‘Yes’ result. Today’s historic referendum result is a victory for equality, for dignity, for respect and compassion. It is a victory for a future Ireland where the human rights of women and girls are respected and protected.

“Today’s important outcome was made possible by the determination of those who campaigned tirelessly for change and by the courage of those women and girls who bravely shared their stories.

“Through this result, the people of Ireland have demonstrated that positive change is possible and have sent a message of hope around the world.”