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Japan is on course to approve the morning-after pill for women who do not want an unwanted pregnancy. Campaigners say Japan’s failure to approve the drug up to now when it is available in more than 70 other countries reflects the low priority given to women’s health by the country’s male-dominated parliament.

A journalist and a campaigner comment on the decision. They say that the fact that the consent of a partner is needed will mean victims of rape or domestic abuse may not be able to access the treatment. They also comment that the price is currently too high, and that access to full reproductive rights for women in Japan should be improved.

*The text has been changed from morning-after pill to abortion pill

Photo: A woman in a chemist in Japan Credit: Getty Images