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Det här är en historievetenskaplig studie vars primära syfte är att med utgångspunkt i muntliga berättelser från barnmorskor som inledde sin yrkesverksamma tid under 1970- och 1990-talet undersöka implementeringen av 1974 års abortlag i vårdrelaterad verksamhet, samt dess inverkan över tid. I ett vidare perspektiv har den även som syfte att undersöka individen i relation till staten och de konflikter som uppstår när beslut och lagstiftning gör anspråk på den enskildes etiska förhållningssätt och värden. / The primary purpose of this historical study is to examine the implementation of the abortion law of 1974 in health-related activities, as well as its impact over time. The material is oral narratives from midwives who began their professional careers in the 1970s and 1990s. In a wider perspective the study also aims to examine the relation between the individual and the state and the conflicts that arise when decisions and legislation claim a person’s ethical standpoint and values.

Abortion policy differs greatly in the countries of the world. Some countries are moving towards a more restrictive abortion policy, whereas other countries are more allowing and stipulate the right to abortion in their constitution. The question of abortion policy is constantly important and brings large effects on both individuals and society. The aim of the study is to explain determinants abortion policy and what determinants are responsible for moving a country from restrictive to permissive abortion policy. Earlier studies tell us that economy, culture, and equality are factors that influence abortion policy in a country, but that the field of study is largely unexplored. We use a multiple regression analysis of panel data of 194 countries during the years 2011-2022. The study shows that abortion policy and changes toward permissive abortion policy depend positively on GDP per capita, women’s representation in political parliament and higher education. Abortion policy also depends negatively on the percentage of Catholics and Muslims in the population, as well as the income distribution. The study shows significant results for all determinants in all models excluding one, and the result confirms our hypothesises. The study can be used as a base for policy and more research is still needed on the subject.