A systematic literature review on the social movement and the abortion law of Malta

Abstract

The purpose of this dissertation is to examine the current situation vis-à-vis abortion in Malta. Furthermore, this dissertation aims to analyse the impact on women in Malta under current abortion legislation and identify key players in the debate. Using a systematic literature review, pertinent literature was identified using predefined search criteria that incorporated specific exclusion and inclusion criteria, which data was then categorized. The PRISMAsupplied flowchart then allowed for a visual representation of the movement of literature throughout the dissertation. The systematic literature review addresses areas such as the criminalisation of abortion, human rights, religion, and the political stance regarding abortion within Maltese society. The literature analysed yielded four specific themes: (i) a misogynistic atmosphere surrounding women’s reproductive rights; (ii) an infringement of human rights; (iii) the taboo surrounding abortion; and (iv) Catholicism as a dominant influence in Maltese society. These are discussed in detail in Chapter 4. It is evident that abortion in Malta is still a stigmatised subject, heavily affected by socio-cultural factors. Towards this end, recommendations proposed in the final chapter suggest means by which Malta can move from conflict to conversation surrounding this sensitive topic.