EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF HEALTH LAW

This article examines the practice of conscientious objection to sexual and reproductive health services in Europe. Conscientious objection arises in health care when providers refuse to provide certain services (such as abortions) based on religious, moral, ethical, or philosophical beliefs. This article explores the human rights outlined in international and European law and the medical and ethical standards regarding the regulation of conscientious objection and discusses the current state of the law in Europe. It finds that inadequate

In this article, the author argues that the preventable rate of maternal mortality is a symptom of a larger social injustice of discrimination against women and violation of women's human rights that societies are unwilling to prevent, remedy and punish. In order to advance safe motherhood through human rights, the author points out that it must be recognized that maternal mortality is a denial of human dignity constituting an injustice which states are obligated to remedy. Part II of the article discusses human rights which are relevant to safe motherhood.

The author Aart Hendriks discusses the 9th session of the UN Committee of Economic, Social and Cultural Rights on the right to health. This session looked at the conflicting views on health: protection of public health versus protection of individual health. The committee reiterated their stance that the denial of individual rights affects society as a whole. The committee stated that state responsibilities included refraining from acts injurious to individuals or society, protection of the environment, and promotion of healthy and safe conditions.