Abortion in the Republic of the Congo
In the Republic of the Congo, abortion is illegal in all cases. The law, based on that of France, sets fines and prison sentences for abortions, but these are rarely enforced. Abortion is common, particularly among young women, with the highest rates in Niari and Pointe-Noire. Illegal providers in Brazzaville, known as manganguistes, sell abortion pills and perform abortions. Unsafe abortion contributes to maternal mortality. Activists and doctors have advocated for legalizing abortion, while other activists have led anti-abortion campaigns.