Abortion Beyond the Law: Building a Global Feminist Movement for Self-Managed Abortion

Sociologist Naomi Braine highlights the strategies, politics, and tactics of direct action feminists who provide abortion pills, information, and support to people seeking to end unwanted pregnancies, despite legal restrictions and NGO-dominated landscapes. These activists are building a transnational feminist network to share tactics and build international solidarity.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 14 November 2023
Publisher: Verso Books

Drawing on extensive research conducted in collaboration with activists from diverse corners of the globe, sociologist Naomi Braine delves into the intricate strategies, political frameworks, and tactical approaches employed by direct action feminists who are tirelessly working to provide access to abortion pills, information, and support to individuals seeking to terminate unwanted pregnancies. These feminist activists, driven by their unwavering commitment to reproductive rights, have undertaken a remarkable journey, navigating the complex terrain of countries such as Bolsonaro's Brazil, where legal restrictions pose significant challenges. Despite these obstacles, they have successfully established safe and accessible abortion care, defying the odds and challenging the status quo.

Moreover, these courageous women are not only providing vital services but also building a strong and interconnected transnational feminist network. Tactics honed in the Global South, including the establishment of hotlines, the practice of accompaniment and peer-to-peer care, and the dissemination of scientific information, are now being shared with activists in Europe and North America. This exchange of knowledge and expertise is fostering a new model of international feminist solidarity, where activists from different regions come together to advocate for reproductive justice and support one another in their efforts to dismantle patriarchal structures and promote gender equality.

The impact of these feminist activists' work is profound, as they are not only improving the lives of individuals seeking abortions but also contributing to the broader feminist movement. By challenging the restrictive laws and policies that perpetuate gender inequality and reproductive oppression, they are paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable society. Their tireless efforts to provide safe and accessible abortion care not only empower women but also serve as a testament to the power of collective action and the resilience of the human spirit.

As we continue to witness the remarkable strides made by direct action feminists, it is clear that their work is far from over. The fight for reproductive rights is an ongoing battle, and there is still much work to be done to ensure that women around the world have access to the care they need and the rights they deserve. By supporting and amplifying the voices of these feminist activists, we can work towards a future where every woman can make decisions about her own body and her own future without fear of discrimination or violence.

Weight: 236g
Dimension: 139 x 209 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781804292068