Argentina rally calls for legalisation of abortion

Activists campaigning for abortions to be legal in Argentina demonstrated outside Congress to show support for an abortion bill currently going through the Senate.

The measure passed in the lower house on December 11.

Backed by President Alberto Fernández, the bill must now be voted on by the Senate on December 29.

Two years ago, during the administration of conservative President Mauricio Macri, the Senate voted against a similar bill to legalize abortion after it was narrowly approved by the lower house.

Latin America has some of the world's most restrictive abortion laws.

Currently, many women who have an abortion in Argentina, as well as people who assist them with the procedure, can face prosecution.

Exemptions are only considered in cases of rape or if the pregnancy poses a risk to the mother's health.

The bill being debated would allow abortions to be carried out up to the 14th week of pregnancy.

(Image: AP)