The authorities of the Autonomous Community of Madrid have decided not to create a special registry of medical professionals who, for personal beliefs, are unwilling to perform abortions. This move comes in response to a requirement from the central government, which previously gave one month for the formation of such lists in several regions, including Madrid, Aragón, and the Balearic Islands.
The regional administration stated it does not intend to single out or label either patients or doctors involved in abortion procedures. According to Madrid government officials, such lists could infringe on the rights of both women and medical professionals, and risk undermining anonymity and freedom of choice.
Instead of carrying out the Health Ministry’s directive, Madrid officials have chosen to refer the issue to the judiciary. They argue that only a court can determine whether such registries comply with the Constitution and do not violate citizens’ rights to freedom of conscience.
Regional authorities emphasize that they support the legality and safety of the procedure but oppose any form of pressure on those involved—both women and doctors. In their view, the state should not interfere with the personal beliefs of medical workers, and the protection of rights and freedoms is guaranteed by the nation’s fundamental law.
The deadline set by the central government for creating the registry has expired. Now, further developments depend on court decisions. If the courts require Madrid to comply with the mandate, the region will have to reconsider its stance. Otherwise, the issue could set a precedent for other autonomous communities where there are also disagreements over the implementation of abortion laws.
For now, the current system remains in place in Madrid: doctors can refuse to perform the procedure on personal grounds without fear of being listed. Authorities assure that women, in turn, will not face restrictions on access to medical care.
