ProLife

Tragically, abortion isn't confined to the so-called Western World. They happen around the clock, around the globe. Come with us as we trace the trail of this life-robbing practise in different countries.

Romania
by Mary Lynn Davison, courtesy of Silent Voices

Statistically, Romania has the highest abortion rate in the world. Currently 3 out of 4 pregnancies are terminated with abortion. It is difficult to collect accurate numbers since abortions are so readily available throughout the country in both states hospitals and private clinics; only the hospitals report their abortion statistics.

In Romania, a country with the population of 23 million, it is estimated that there are about 800,000 abortions a year and this is probably on the conservative side. (At that same rate in the United States, that would be 8.5 million abortions a year!) Over 10 million abortions have occurred since the revolution in December 1989. The procedure costs less than $5 and is obviously the preferred method of birth control.

It's been called the Romanian abortion epidemic. Doctors typically react to the results of a positive pregnancy test by assuming their patients will want an abortion (75% do). Their next comments then are more likely to be about scheduling an abortion rather than about due dates. Foundation Confident Crisis Pregnancy Center was established to raise a voice against this out of control solution offered so carelessly.

One of the country's first centers of its kind, they provide many of the same services as counterparts in the USA and UK. They offer free pregnancy tests and relevant information about pregnancy and abortion combined with counseling and also offer women suffering the crisis of an unplanned pregnancy much needed emotional support. Their hope is that by standing with them through this difficult time and by providing practical help, they will choose an alternative to abortion. A growing number of women have chosen life. Women are coming and seeking this service in increasing numbers.

Due to the long history and extremely high rate of abortion in Romania, almost every family has been affected by the consequences of abortion. Therefore, post abortion counseling is an integral part of this ministry.

Finally, an important part of Foundation Confident's work is to raise public awareness about fetal development, the nature of abortion and its devastating consequences. There have been numerous opportunities: interviews with local television, radio and newspapers, and articles contributed to newspapers and magazines. The team has translated and produced a growing body of literature for public education. They challenge public opinion norms in churches, schools, political groups and within the medical community.

Foundation Confident is located in Cluj, Romania, and was established in 1996, with a dual purpose. One purpose is to develop counseling in the country. The other purpose is to provide the services of a crisis pregnancy center. Each ministry has a separate history and vision. But each is interwoven with the other, and both intertwined with the heart of God.

Facing this problem and attempting to turn the tide, there are 6-10 functioning crisis pregnancy centers throughout Romania. Foundation Confident is one of these few.

Visit the Silent Voices website

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