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Calls for the European Union to help women access abortion services across borders gained momentum after the European Commission indicated that existing EU funds could be used to support such care.
More than 100 Members of the European Parliament had already urged Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to create a financial mechanism ensuring women can obtain abortions in another EU country when the procedure is restricted at home. Their appeal came alongside the European Citizens’ Initiative My Voice, My Choice, which gathered over 1.12 million signatures across the bloc.
Now, campaign organisers say the Commission has responded positively.
Commission points to existing EU funds
According to the initiative’s coordinator Nika Kovač, the Commission concluded that the objectives of the citizens’ initiative could be met through the EU’s European Social Fund Plus (ESF+) programme. While no new legal instrument or dedicated fund is being created, the Commission has formally recognised a pathway that could allow member states to use EU money to support access to safe abortion care.
Kovač described the decision as a “victory for women in Europe” and said it demonstrates the EU’s capacity to act on reproductive health inequalities.
Campaigners also welcomed indications that funding could cover not only medical procedures but, in certain circumstances, travel costs for women who must seek care abroad, a measure they say is crucial in urgent or life-threatening situations.
Pressure from Parliament
The development follows sustained political pressure. In December, the European Parliament adopted a non-binding resolution calling for an EU solidarity mechanism to help women who cannot legally obtain abortions in their home countries.
The recent letter from 105 MEPs, largely from the Socialists & Democrats, Greens/EFA and The Left groups — pushed the Commission to move from political support to concrete financial action. Proponents argue that uneven national laws continue to expose women to unsafe conditions and discriminatory barriers.
Estimates from supporters suggest a dedicated mechanism could cost between €3 million and €7 million annually, though the Commission has not announced any new budget allocation.
Supporters welcome step but seek more
Despite welcoming the Commission’s position, organisers stressed that additional funding may still be needed. They expressed disappointment that no fresh financial resources were promised and called on Brussels to provide clear guidance to member states on how to operationalise the funding route.
They also urged the creation of an EU information platform to help patients navigate cross-border access.
Political divisions remain
The push to use EU funds for abortion access continues to face resistance. Lawmakers from Spain’s far-right Vox party have warned against financing cross-border abortions with public money and have questioned the political neutrality of the citizens’ initiative.
The debate highlights persistent divisions across the EU. The European Abortion Policies Atlas 2025 shows that while some member states have strengthened protections for reproductive rights, others have introduced tighter restrictions and reported increased pressure on providers.
With the Commission now signalling a possible funding pathway, but stopping short of creating a new fund, the next phase will depend largely on whether member states choose to use EU money to expand cross-border abortion access.
With information from Euronews and www.myvoice-mychoice.org.
