Anti-abortion group holding protests outside Glasgow hospital vows to obey buffer zone law

A US-based anti-abortion group has launched a series of protests outside a Glasgow hospital as part of a 40-day campaign for Lent. However, organisers have insisted they will not violate Scotland’s new buffer zone legislation, which prohibits demonstrations within 200m of abortion clinics.

Protests and the new buffer zone law

Campaigners from 40 Days for Life have gathered on Shieldhall Road, across from Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, instead of within the designated safe access zone. The Abortion Services (Safe Access Zones) Act came into force last year, making Scotland the first UK nation to implement legal protections preventing anti-abortion demonstrations near 30 healthcare facilities offering termination services.

The law was put to the test last month when a 74-year-old woman became the first person arrested for violating the legislation at the hospital.

Scottish Green MSP Gillian Mackay, who spearheaded the law, described the coming weeks as a “real test” for the new rules.

“For far too long, women have had to endure totally unacceptable abuse and obstruction outside hospitals. It should never have happened, and my Act to stop it received the overwhelming support of our parliament.”

Students speak out

The protests have sparked conversation among students at the University of Glasgow, particularly within student-led publications such as The Glasgow Tab.

“I came to Scotland partly because of its strong stance on reproductive rights,” said Julia Thompson, a second year American student at the University of Glasgow. “It’s unsettling to see an American group trying to bring US-style abortion debates here.”

Lauren McDonald, a third year student at the University of Glasgow, echoed concerns about the presence of 40 Days for Life: “These protests may be ‘peaceful’ in name, but their presence alone can be intimidating for women accessing healthcare.”

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However, not all students are critical. Olivia Carter, a first year student from Texas studying at the University of Glasgow, defended the group’s right to protest: “Even if I don’t agree with them, they’re within their rights as long as they follow the law.”

Emma Robertson, a fourth year history student, expressed concerns about the broader implications of such protests. “It sets a dangerous precedent when religious groups influence healthcare decisions. Even if they comply with the buffer zone law, their ideology alone can contribute to stigma and fear.”

International misinformation concerns

The protests also come amid controversy surrounding US Vice-President JD Vance, who recently claimed at the Munich Security Conference that Scottish residents living within buffer zones had been warned against praying in their own homes. The Scottish Government has firmly denied these allegations, stating that no such letters were sent and that the law only applies to “intentional or reckless behaviour” in public spaces.

Mackay called Vance’s comments “nonsense,” reinforcing that private prayer has never been impacted by the legislation.

What happens next?

The vigils are set to continue until 13 April, the Sunday before Easter. In the meantime, campaigners, politicians, and students alike will be watching closely to see whether Scotland’s buffer zone law remains effective in protecting access to reproductive healthcare.

As the debate continues, student voices are adding a crucial dimension to the conversation. “People say this is just an American problem,” said Julia Thompson. “But clearly, it’s not.”

Featured image via X