Abortion was the leading cause of death worldwide in 2023, according to new figures compiled by Worldometer.

According to the new figures, in 2023 abortion claimed 44 million lives.

By comparison, infectious diseases were responsible for the second highest number of deaths at 13 million.

MPs are preparing to debate the UK government's Criminal Justice Bill. Two MPs, Diana Johnson and Stella Creasey have added abortion amendments to the Bill.

Each amendment has broadly the same aim: to take abortion out of criminal law altogether. This is known as the 'decriminalisation' of abortion and is supported by abortion provider BPAS (British Pregnancy Advisory Service).

If successful, it would effectively remove the last remaining legal protections for women and preborn babies.