Niger: Marie Stopes ‘abortion clinics’ shut down

Reports from Niger say the authorities have ordered the closure of two centres run by the British charity, Marie Stopes International, saying they were illegally performing abortions. The French news agency AFP quotes the health ministry as saying the decision follows an inquiry. Niger passed a law in 2006 specifying that abortions are allowed only […]

Reports from Niger say the authorities have ordered the closure of two centres run by the British charity, Marie Stopes International, saying they were illegally performing abortions.

The French news agency AFP quotes the health ministry as saying the decision follows an inquiry.

Niger passed a law in 2006 specifying that abortions are allowed only if the mother’s life is in danger.

There’s been no word from the charity.

Women in Niger have an average of more than seven children each – the highest birth rate in the world.

Earlier this month, Kenya – which also has strict abortion laws – said it was closing down abortion services provided by Marie Stopes International.