20 African Nations Officially Approve 'Family Charter' Opposing Abortion and Upholding Traditional Marriage

Twenty African nations have officially approved a 'Family Charter' that upholds traditional marriage as a union between a man and a woman and opposes abortion. The charter enshrines the right of nations to self-determination regarding abortion, marriage, and family policy, while setting out principles encompassing both family life and national economic activity.

The charter outlines specific principles regarding the family, life, and sovereignty. It defines marriage as a "union between a man and a woman" and recognizes individuals as either male or female. According to the Society for the Protection of Unborn Children (SPUC), Article 7 rejects claims that abortion is included in commitments regarding sexual and reproductive health, refusing to establish international abortion rights. Article 4 urges participating governments to review and repeal laws deemed harmful to the family. The document also opposes laws permitting prostitution and policies advocating gender identity.

SPUC Chief Executive John Deigan welcomed the charter's adoption as a stand against attempts by Western nations to export liberal ideology to developing countries. "For too long, a distorted West has forced birth control, abortion, and modern sexual expression on Third World countries, with Africa being the hardest hit," he stated. "It is heartening to see 20 countries standing firm despite anticipated financial sanctions." Deigan emphasized, "Development can never be synonymous with the liberalization of abortion or the dismantling of traditional family structures."

South Africa reportedly did not participate in the charter's approval, citing concerns that certain provisions conflict with the protective clauses of its national constitution.