In recent years, actions have multiplied to try to criminalize the efforts of pro-lifers. In 2022, the government approved changes to the Penal Code that seek to strongly curtail pro-life activism at abortion clinics such as the 40 Days for Life prayer and fasting campaign.
The Penal Code establishes prison sentences for anyone who “in order to hinder the exercise of the right to voluntary interruption of pregnancy, harasses a woman through annoying, offensive, intimidating, or coercive acts that undermine her freedom.”
Similar penalties are also provided for those who interact with “doctors or directors of centers authorized to terminate a pregnancy with the aim of hindering the exercise of their profession or position.”
Given these circumstances, 40 Days for Life reworked the instructions it gave to volunteers in March in order to avoid any circumstance that could be taken advantage of to make an accusation of harassment. Guidelines include making a full electronic recording of the entire time slot during which the volunteers are praying.
Action guide
During the second 40 Days for Life conference in Spain, held in mid-September, the bishop of Orihuela-Alicante, José Ignacio Munilla, presented the book “Qué Decir Cuándo” (“What to Say When”), a complete guide to discussing and offering arguments for the right to life.
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