Prison system grapples with sensitive issues of sexual activities and termination of pregnancies
=====================================================================
In the small town of Waiblingen, Germany, Agnes Perjesi, the director of the Pro Familia counseling center, is voicing her concerns about the increasing number of abortions in the country.
Perjesi, who has been at the helm of the center for 50 years, is frustrated with the previous government's efforts regarding the legalization of abortions. She believes that the issue is significant in sexual education and self-determination, two areas she believes are crucial for societal progress.
According to recent statistics, the number of abortions in Germany increased by 10% in 2022 compared to the previous year. This alarming trend has prompted Perjesi to delve deeper into the possible motives for this record high number.
One of the factors she cites is the historical context. Fifty years ago, gynecologists were mainly male, and women were solely responsible for contraception. This imbalance, Perjesi argues, may have led to a lack of understanding and support for women's reproductive rights.
Perjesi is also aware that social media and AI will become increasingly important topics in the future. She plans to reach future generations who want to get their information online and possibly at night.
To address these issues, Perjesi is involved in a project titled "FreiRaum für Aufklärung" (FreeSpace for Enlightenment). This project aims to convey knowledge through sexual pedagogical offers and prevent sexualized violence. The project is accompanied by the Pedagogical University of Schwäbisch Gmünd for scientific evaluation.
In addition, Perjesi is planning a cooperation project with the JVA Schwäbisch Gmünd, a women's prison, under the same title. The goal of this project is to strengthen self-determination and support the reintegration of women.
The German federal government, under Chancellor Olaf Scholz (SPD-led coalition), established an expert committee on the decriminalization of abortion. The committee received recommendations in April 2024 but the early federal election in February 2025 prevented the issue from being put on the parliamentary agenda before the election.
Currently, abortions in Germany are governed by Section 218 of the Criminal Code. An abortion is generally illegal, but it remains punishable if performed within the first 12 weeks of pregnancy.
Perjesi sees positive developments in the professionalization of counseling services. Counseling at Pro Familia in Waiblingen has evolved from being needs-oriented to a professionalized offer. She believes this shift is crucial for providing effective support to those in need.
The Pro Familia counseling center in Waiblingen has been offering services for 50 years. Over this time, it has become a beacon of hope and support for countless individuals, and Perjesi remains committed to continuing this important work.
Read also:
- Inherent Skills Know No Bounds, Yet Access to Employment Remains Unequal: Suggestions for a More Equitable Job Market of the Future
- "Understanding Fodder: Explore 6 Variations to Test"
- Affordable supermarket purchases from dollar stores are not sabotaging typical American nutritional habits, according to research findings
- Impact of Chronic Stress on Cognitive Function and Brain Integrity Over Time
