Reproductive Rights in Germany: Challenges and Solutions in Focus

Reproductive Rights in Germany: Challenges and Solutions in Focus

The discussion about reproductive rights is under pressure worldwide. This became clear again during the first meeting of the ReproGerecht research network, which took place on September 1st and 2nd, 2025 at the Bucerius Law School. The conference was entitled “Reproductive self-determination in social change: Interdisciplinary perspectives and current challenges” and brought together over 30 researchers from 28 universities and research institutions. The central question was the implementation of reproductive rights in the area of ​​tension between individual freedom claims and the social framework conditions. According to the UN, access to reproductive rights is restricted in many countries, including Germany, which particularly affects women and marginalized groups. This is reflected in the reporting of the Constitution blog.

The founders and co-leaders of the research network, Prof. Dr. Henrike von Scheliha (Bucerius Law School), Prof. Dr. Anne-Kristin Kuhnt (University of Rostock) and Prof. Dr. Dana-Sophia Valentiner (Helmut Schmidt University/University of the Bundeswehr in Hamburg) discussed topics such as the legal protection of reproductive rights as human rights, structural inequalities in access to reproductive health care, and the role of social and economic conditions for reproductive self-determination in numerous discussion groups. These discussions are particularly relevant as research shows that 44% of women and girls worldwide lack control over their sexual health and reproductive health care bpb.de is displayed.

Structural inequalities and their effects

The conference was a forum for the exchange of interdisciplinary perspectives on reproductive justice. Access to reproductive medical procedures is severely limited in Germany, especially for queer couples. Abortions are regulated and criminalized by criminal law, which leads to reproductive heteronomy. There are loud calls for decriminalization, but there is a lack of political will for reform. This reinforces the structural barriers that hinder reproductive self-determination.

In addition, the ELSA study shows that the care situation for unwanted pregnancies in Germany is precarious, which results in psychosocial stress for affected women. Access to necessary information and medical services is made difficult by stigma and social inequality. The legal regulation on abortion and the associated social norms influence not only the legal situation, but also the personal decision-making behavior of many of those affected.

The global context of reproductive rights

At the global level, reproductive rights remain in crisis. Family planning policies are under pressure and access to contraceptives is often restricted. Research shows that these restrictions often lead to health risks for women. Reproductive self-determination as part of individual freedom and social justice is not sufficiently promoted in many countries, including Germany.

The concept of reproductive health, based on the WHO concept of health, includes health, social and psychological dimensions. The analysis of historical laws that were directed against contraceptives, for example, shows how strongly political ideas about family and gender influence reproductive health. To bring about lasting change, a paradigm shift is necessary when it comes to access to contraception and abortion.

In summary, it can be said that the conference of the ReproGerecht research network not only highlights current challenges, but also makes an important contribution to strengthening reproductive rights and justice. The relevance of interdisciplinary collaboration on these issues cannot be emphasized enough in order to sustainably improve the conditions for reproductive health.