An American anti-abortion group has pledged to comply with Scotland’s new buffer zone law after an arrest at a recent protest outside a Glasgow hospital. 40 Days For Life, which had planned demonstrations, confirmed it would remain outside the 200-meter exclusion zone.
Protest Plans Adjusted After Arrest
The group had initially intended to gather near the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital in Glasgow between March 5 and April 13. However, following the arrest of a 74-year-old woman last week, the organization has decided to avoid breaking the law.
- The arrested woman was the first person in Scotland to be detained under the Abortion Services (Safe Access Zones) Act.
- The law prohibits anti-abortion protests within 200 meters of hospitals providing abortion services.
- The group will now hold vigils on Hardgate Road, outside the restricted area.
Organizers Insist on Lawful Assembly
Mary Gilroy, the organizer of the 40 Days For Life protests in Glasgow, stated that the group would respect the buffer zone while continuing its activities. “The 40 Days for Life prayer group will not be operating within the buffer zone but will instead pray for help and protection for mothers and their unborn babies from a 200-metre distance from the abortion facility,” she said.
She emphasized that the group had coordinated with police to ensure compliance, adding, “We have arranged to meet with police services ahead of the planned dates and are grateful for our good working relations that protect our ability to pray.”
Political Controversy and Public Response
The renewed demonstrations come amid heightened tensions following remarks from US Vice-President JD Vance, who falsely claimed that people in Scotland were being criminalized for praying in their own homes. His comments were widely criticized and are believed to have influenced the resurgence of protests.
The buffer zone law, passed to protect patients and medical staff from harassment, has been both praised and criticized. Supporters argue that it safeguards vulnerable individuals seeking medical care, while opponents claim it restricts free speech and religious expression.
| Key Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Protest Organizers | 40 Days For Life |
| Protest Location | Hardgate Road, Glasgow |
| Protest Duration | March 5 – April 13 |
| Buffer Zone Distance | 200 meters |
| Arrest | 74-year-old woman |
With protests set to continue outside the restricted area, police and advocacy groups will closely monitor the situation to ensure that Scotland’s buffer zone law is upheld.
