Argentina has become the first major country in Latin America to legalize abortion as the Senate voted, on Wednesday to allow abortions through the 14th week of pregnancy despite opposition from the influential Catholic Church.
According to media reports, the fiercely contentious vote was passed with 38 members in favor, 29 against and one neutral vote which came after a prolonged debate that began at 4 p.m. (1900 GMT) on Tuesday.
As the result was read out, a crowd of thousands of pro-abortion supporters erupted in cheers outside the Senate building in Buenos Aires, waving the green flags that represented their campaign.
The ruling could set the tone for a wider shift in conservative Latin America where there are growing calls for greater reproductive rights for women.
Across the region, abortions are available on demand only in Communist Cuba, Uruguay and some parts of Mexico.
Until now, Argentine law has only allowed abortion when there is a serious risk to the health of the mother or in cases of rape.
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