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Veganism and Abortion

What is the official vegan stance on abortion?

No moral dilemma exists that is quite like the issue of abortion. A fetus grows within and is dependent on the pregnant woman carrying it, so the situation is distinctly different from that of animals or humans already born and conspicuously alive. Simple observation readily confirms the obvious with regard to the suffering of people and animals. The question of when life begins, however, is an enigmatic matter that has sparked passionate political, legal, and ecclesiastical debate.

Vegans are all across the board in their view of abortion. Although many vegans feel that abortion is a relevant vegan issue, there is no consensus of opinion. Even vegans who have parallel points of view on most matters often come to very different conclusions on this one. This is because determining when life begins is a complex and subjective affair, one which frequently involves spiritual or religious considerations as well. Consequently, this issue is just as contentious and no easier to resolve within the bounds of veganism than it is in the general public.

Veganism is not a theology. Hence vegans come from a diverse range of backgrounds and outlooks. Because vegans do not share a uniform position on abortion, there is no "official stance." This matter is best resolved by individual practitioners in the context of their personal perspectives or spiritual beliefs.