This exhibition details the work of 'Women on Waves', a Dutch charity that operates a floating clinic to provide medically safe abortions. The initiative aims to prevent deaths from illegal abortions by offering services in international waters where national laws do not apply.
The 'Women on Waves' initiative, founded by Dr. Rebecca Gomperts in May 1999, operates a floating clinic to provide medically safe abortions, addressing the dangers of illegal procedures worldwide. The organization is known for its high-profile campaigns in countries with strict abortion laws, bringing women aboard its ship and returning to international waters where legal restrictions are lifted. Beyond providing medical services, 'Women on Waves' engages in striking art projects, protests advocating for legal reform, sex education workshops, and online guidance for women facing unwanted pregnancies. Approximately 25% of the global population resides in regions with restrictive abortion laws, where women may face severe legal consequences, including imprisonment.
The initiative's mission is to ensure access to contraceptives and legal abortions, thereby preventing dangerous and often fatal illegal procedures. By leveraging its unique mobile platform, 'Women on Waves' extends its reach to regions in Latin America, Africa, and Asia where such services are critically limited. The organization's approach combines direct medical aid with advocacy and education, aiming to influence legal landscapes and empower women with knowledge about their reproductive health.
