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Abortion Democracy: Poland/South Africa (2008)

Abortion Democracy: Poland/South Africa (2008)

Documentary
Release Date: 2008, November 12
Directors: Sarah Diehl
Cast: Wanda Nowicka, Alicja Tysiac, Marijke Alblas, Nurrudin Farrah

Overview:

Why are illegal abortions more accessible in Poland than legal ones in South Africa? This documentary feature explores and contrasts changes in Poland and South Africa regarding abortion laws and their impact on the lives of women. In the 90's, Poland banned abortion due to the increasing influence of the Catholic Church after the fall of communism; around the same time South Africa legalized it, reforming the health system after the fall of apartheid. The film reveals how the legal status of women is a direct result of the silencing or empowering of women's voices. In the Polish society and media, women's perspectives were made invisible; in South Africa, on the other hand, they were invited to give public hearings in the parliament about problems in the realm of reproduction.

Keywords:

woman director poland south africa