441-00639 (Justice)

Everyone has the right to make decisions about their health and body. The Supreme Court of Canada in 1988 struck down Canada’s criminal law against abortion, and the Government took the necessary steps to complete the repeal of those provisions by introducing amendments to take them off the books, which were enacted in 2019. Our Government is committed to upholding all the rights enshrined in the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, including section 7, which provides that everyone has the right to life, liberty and security of the person and the right not to be deprived thereof except in accordance with the principles of fundamental justice. Section 7 includes some protection against government interference with an individual’s access to abortion care. Section 7 also generally protects an individual’s right to control their bodily integrity, and a sphere of personal autonomy involving inherently private choices that go to the core of what it means to enjoy individual dignity and independence.

Our government will always protect and promote individual rights in Canada and around the world.Our government also continues to protect a woman’s ability to access safe abortion services. On December 17, 2021, Bill C-3, which amended the Criminal Code to enhance protections for health care workers, those who assist them, and those accessing health services, received Royal Assent. The offences enacted by Bill C-3 prohibit conduct that provokes a state of fear in a person to prevent them from obtaining health services and that obstructs access to health facilities, including abortion clinics.

Canadians must be able to access health facilities and services, including abortion clinics and services, without obstruction, intimidation or fear for their safety.