In Spain, doctors refusing to perform abortions "blacklisted"
Illustrative photo: a physician in a medical institution. Photo: Kaboompics.com
On October 5, 2025, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez ordered the compilation of lists of doctors rejecting abortions which they consider morally wrong. As reported by The European Conservative, this move is part of a new government policy aimed at tightening control over the healthcare system and effectively limiting the right of medical professionals to refuse participation in abortions.
According to the order, Sánchez sent official letters to the heads of Aragon, Asturias, the Balearic Islands, and Madrid, demanding that they "as soon as possible" create and organize regional registries of doctors refusing to participate in pregnancy termination procedures. Regional authorities have been given three months to fulfil the directive.
Medical associations and human rights advocates warn that such lists violate freedom of conscience and could become a tool for pressure and discrimination against dissenting specialists. According to them, it is not about protecting women's rights but about suppressing dissent and enforcing his government’s ideology.
Previously, Sánchez announced his intention to enshrine the "right to abortion" in the Spanish Constitution, calling it a step in defense of "women’s freedom and autonomy". However, critics believe that the government is substituting medical ethics with politics and seeks to suppress dissent.
The President of the Madrid Medical Association, Manuel Martínez-Sellés, noted that such an initiative is aimed at intimidating doctors: “If the government wants to organize abortion services, it should ask for a list of those willing to perform them – not those who refuse.”
According to observers, Sánchez's the campaign against objectors is less about healthcare and more about politics. It is intended to divert public attention from internal crises and corruption scandals, turning the issue of abortions into another tool of ideological mobilization.
Previously, the UOJ reported that thousands of people in Vienna took to the streets for an anti-abortion march "For Life".
Read also
DESS registers "Ukrainian Interchurch Council"
The association has received official status and called for protecting the constitutional status of the family from Supreme Court rulings.
Surge in pilgrim numbers recorded on Mount Athos, administrator says
Amid wars and global instability, the number of pilgrims visiting Mount Athos has risen to as many as 1,500 per day, placing strain on monasteries and infrastructure.
UOC clergy in Poltava deliver aid to hospitals and social centers
Priests and volunteers of the “Blaho” center visited social institutions in Poltava, congratulated people on Easter, and delivered humanitarian aid to those in need.
Kharkiv metropolitan offers condolences after attacks on Bohodukhiv
Metropolitan Onufriy of Kharkiv called for prayer and support for those affected by the massive attacks on Bohodukhiv, where homes and infrastructure were destroyed.
Pope comments on German cardinal’s decision on “gay blessings”
The head of the Vatican said he would not approve formal rites for same-sex couples.
Catholic bishop: The Church in Germany has betrayed what is Christian
Bishop Athanasius Schneider called German hierarchs “cowardly accomplices” of left-wing ideology and predicted historical disgrace for them over their abandonment of the canons of faith.