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Gender and healthcare issues related to the Protected Birth Act in Korea

보호출산제 시행과 젠더 및 보건의료 이슈

  • Jiah Jeong (Department of Women-Gender Studies, Chungnam National University)
  • 정지아 (충남대학교 여성젠더학과)
  • Received : 2024.05.15
  • Accepted : 2024.06.14
  • Published : 2024.06.30

Abstract

This paper discusses the implications of the birth notification system and the Protected Birth Act in Korea. Aiming to prevent infanticide and abandonment of infants, the law will enter into force on July 19, 2024 in South Korea. The birth notification system mandates that both parents and the head of the medical institution where the birth occurred must report the event. In parallel, the Protected Birth Act will be implemented, allowing pregnant women in crisis who wish to remain anonymous, the option to give birth outside of a hospital setting in a way that safeguards the life and health of the child. However, many issues are being raised in Korean society in advance of the implementation of the Protected Birth Act. There is widespread concern that the Protected Birth Act fails to protect either women or children, especially as it raises issues regarding the need for legislation to protect children with disabilities and to address gaps for migrant women and children. This paper examines the gender and healthcare issues relating to the Protected Birth Act, focusing on women's health and human rights. The Act continues to perpetuate discrimination against out-of-wedlock pregnancies and upholds the ideology of the traditional family model. Furthermore, the legislative process did not address protective measures for the various reasons behind child abandonment. Critical issues such as women's autonomy, safe pregnancy termination, and paternal responsibility in childbirth are also notably absent. However, with the Act set to take effect soon, it is crucial for healthcare providers to comprehend the rationale and procedures associated with birth notification and the Protected Birth Act, and to prepare for its nationwide implementation. The law defines the socially vulnerable as its main beneficiaries, and it is necessary to strengthen social safety nets to improve their access to healthcare, eliminate prejudice and discrimination against out-of-wedlock pregnancies, and embrace the diversity of our society. We eagerly anticipate future discussions on gender and healthcare issues, as well as amendments to the law that reflect real-world circumstances to provide genuine protection for pregnant women in crisis and their infants.

Keywords

References

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