Mexico's Top Court Keeps Anti-Abortion Law in Place

Even though seven justices rule against it
By John Johnson,  Newser Staff
Posted Sep 29, 2011 10:30 AM CDT
Mexico's Top Court Keeps Anti-Abortion Law in Place
An activist demonstrates in favor of legalizing abortion in Mexico City Wednesday.   (AP Photo/Marco Ugarte)

Abortion opponents are hailing a victory in Mexico, where the nation's Supreme Court left in place a law in the state of Baja California that declares life begins at conception. But those in favor of abortion rights have hope, notes the Los Angeles Times. Seven of the panel's 11 justices voted to overturn the law, falling just one short of the necessary eight. "Years ago no one would have thought seven justices would have ruled this way," says the leader of one pro-choice group. "I think these are slow but sure steps."

Baja put the law on the books in response to the legalization of abortion in Mexico City in 2007, explains the Times. Many other states around the country did so as well, and the legal challenges are just beginning to reach the top court. In fact, the justices will consider a similar law today from the state of San Luis Potosi. (More Mexico stories.)

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