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Faroe Islands Approve Landmark Abortion Law for Women

3/20/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Marna Jacobsen, now 71, recalls being a pregnant teenager in the Faroe Islands, where abortion was nearly banned.
The Faroe Islands are a self-governing region of Denmark, with abortion laws strict since 1956.
Parliament approved a law allowing abortions within the first 12 weeks.
Hervor Palsdottir, a Faroe Islands lawmaker and bill cosponsor, called it a huge victory for women's rights.
The law will take effect in July.

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Story summary

Marna Jacobsen, now 71, recalls being a pregnant teenager in the Faroe Islands, where abortion was nearly banned.
The Faroe Islands are a self-governing region of Denmark, with abortion laws strict since 1956.
Parliament approved a law allowing abortions within the first 12 weeks.
Hervor Palsdottir, a Faroe Islands lawmaker and bill cosponsor, called it a huge victory for women's rights.
The law will take effect in July.