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New Chilean Law Allows Free Distribution Of Emergency Contraception In Public Hospitals

We are elated that on Friday, the 15th of January 2010, the Chilean Constitutional Court, adopted the draft law on information, guidance and benefits in the field of reproductive health, which, among other things, enshrines the free distribution of Emergency Contraception (EC) in public health centers in Chile.

On Monday, the 18th of January, the President of the Republic, Michelle Bachelet, signed the law, which includes the implementation of plans and programs of study on sex education for both public and private high schools. The law also reaffirms the confidentiality and privacy of young people over the age of 14.

APROFA, IPPF’s Member Association in Chile, together with its board and staff members, were specially invited to the momentous signing ceremony. On the occasion, they delivered a note of appreciation to the President as well as a copy of Sexual Rights: An IPPF Declaration.

This law is a significant step towards the recognition of the Sexual and Reproductive Rights of all Chileans - both women and men - and is weighted with special symbolism, considering that this issue has faced major obstacles in Latin America.