France has become the world's first country to include abortion rights in its constitution, setting a significant precedent for reproductive rights globally. The move comes as a response to the US Supreme Court's decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, sparking concerns over the future of abortion rights in various countries.

Lawmakers from both houses of the French Parliament overwhelmingly voted in favor of the measure, with a remarkable majority of 780 to 72. This resounding support easily crossed the three-fifths majority required to amend the French constitution. The final step in the legislative process took place during a special gathering at the Palace of Versailles, southwest of Paris.

The amendment affirms a "guaranteed freedom" to abortion in France, although some groups and lawmakers had called for stronger language explicitly referring to abortion as a "right." Nonetheless, lawmakers hailed this historical decision as a milestone for France, particularly in light of the threats to abortion rights in the United States and parts of Europe.

To celebrate this victory for reproductive rights, the iconic Eiffel Tower was illuminated with the empowering words, "my body my choice." Prime Minister Gabriel Attal emphasized the government's recognition of a "moral debt" owed to women who had to endure illegal abortions in the past. He stated, "Above all, we're sending a message to all women: your body belongs to you."

French President Emmanuel Macron announced plans for a formal ceremony on Friday, International Women's Rights Day, to commemorate the passage of the amendment. This notable development builds upon France's journey towards reproductive liberty, which began in 1975 when abortion was initially legalized after a remarkable campaign led by Simone Veil, a prominent feminist icon and Auschwitz survivor.

Contrary to the highly divisive nature of abortion politics in the United States, France exhibits widespread support for reproductive rights. Although some lawmakers voted against the amendment, their opposition stemmed from the belief that it was unnecessary, given the prevailing support for reproductive rights within the country.

Thus, this victory for the French left, which has long advocated for the inclusion of abortion rights in the constitution, is a significant achievement. It marks the 25th amendment to the French constitution since the founding of the Fifth Republic in 1958.

Despite the overwhelming support for the amendment, the Catholic Church stands as one of the few entities opposing it. The Pontifical Academy for Life, a Vatican body dedicated to bioethical issues, expressed its opposition, stating that "in the era of universal human rights, there can be no 'right' to take human life." The conference of French bishops also reiterated the Church's stance against abortion ahead of the vote.

France's groundbreaking decision to enshrine abortion rights in its constitution sends a powerful message to the world, reaffirming its commitment to women's reproductive autonomy. As the first country to take this significant step, France sets an example for nations grappling with the future of abortion rights amidst changing legal landscapes.