The Green Party in Austria is advocating for the establishment of safe zones around abortion clinics and counseling centers to protect women from harassment by anti-abortion activists.

Meri Disoski, the party's women's spokesperson, emphasized the need for clear legal deterrents to prevent intimidation and psychological pressure on women seeking abortions.

This call for action comes in light of recent reports of women being turned away from the Vorarlberg State Hospital due to alleged ethical concerns and scheduling issues, despite being within the legal timeframe for abortions.

The Green Party's proposal mirrors a recent law in Germany aimed at ensuring unimpeded access to abortion services, which includes penalties for those who violate these protections.

Disoski highlighted the severe emotional toll that harassment can take on women and their families, calling for immediate legislative measures to address this issue.