Raped. Pregnant. Only 10 years old.
She is 10 years old, and she simply thought she had a stomach ache.
But when her mother took her to hospital in April they discovered she was 21 weeks pregnant; the result of being raped by her stepfather.
While the girl is now in a stable condition, she is in danger if this pregnancy progresses. And yet, the authorities are denying her access to a safe abortion.
The World Health Organisation and health professionals around the world agree pregnancy poses specific risks to young girls whose bodies are not fully developed.
The girl's mother has already submitted an administrative plea to the hospital on behalf of her daughter, requesting access to a safe abortion.
But according to our sources the girl has been sent to a centre for young mothers.
She needs your help right now.
Subject Line: 10 year old girl needs your attention
Dear President,
Currently the life of a 10-year-old girl who is pregnant after having been raped by her stepfather is in danger. Despite the high risk this pregnancy poses and her mother's request, access to safe abortion has not yet been provided.
I am calling for you to:
- Imminently make a decision to ensure the girl has access to all possible services, including the option of a safe abortion, and to guarantee her right to life, health, and physical and psychological integrity in the short, medium and long-term;
- Guarantee the best interest of the girl, which requires assessing the safety and integrity of the child at the current time and also the possibility of future risk and harm when making decisions that can affect her;
- Ensure a thorough and independent investigation into the sexual abuse and bring those responsible to justice.
[Your comments here]
I look forward to your response.
Yours sincerely,
[Your name here]
Update #28 years ago
Paraguay continues to deny the rights to health, life and physical and mental integrity to a girl who is pregnant as a result of rape, despite national and international outrage. Over half a million actions have been sent to the Paraguayan authorities by Amnesty supporters, like you. Please keep taking action.
Update #18 years ago
The next day or two are crucial for this campaign. The panel of experts to advise on the girl’s case (something we were calling for) will give their assessment and the authorities will have to make a decision. The international pressure on Paraguay can make a great difference; and it also shows international solidarity with the girl and the local organisations working on this case. Please keep taking action.
