Pregnancy and Childbirth: Joy or Despair? Women and Gender-generated Reproductive Crimes of Violence

The research contained in this book follows from the earlier publication Women and the Justice Delivery System in Zimbabwe (WLSA, 2000). This book focuses on the so- called 'gender-generated crimes of violence committed by women' - unlawful abortion, infanticide, concealment of birth and baby dumping -in relation to the criminal justice system. The book explores the social, cultural, economic and educational factors which underpin these acts. It aims to provide a research platform from which to argues for changes in laws and policies around access to contraception and legal abortion, and to advocate a more sensitive approach to women's reproductive rights.