Content and trigger warning: This episode discusses abortion, reproductive rights, and related social and political issues. We recognise that these topics can be deeply personal, and some listeners may find parts of the conversation distressing. Listener discretion is advised. 

In this second episode of our new podcast series NEW(S) FRONTIERS, entitled ‘Abortion Rights: The US effect on the UK’ we look at women’s reproductive rights in the UK and the influence that the US Christian right is taking in attempting to subvert the laws of abortion rights in this country, emboldened by the recent overturning of Roe v. Wade and Donald Trump’s second term as president.

We got two experts together Katherine O’Brien, the Associate Director of Campaigns and Communications for the British Pregnancy Advisory Service (BPAS) and Christian Hacking, the founder of Vote Life, an anti-abortion network, to discuss the US influence on the abortion issue in the UK. We also discuss to what extent pro-life groups are becoming emboldened to challenge existing laws and turn abortion into a voting issue. Listen here:

This podcast was originally recorded earlier this year, but as a small team with a lot to juggle, we were only able to release it now. The discussion remains as poignant as ever with Nigel Farage and his right-wing populist party, Reform UK, which has now aligned itself with the pro-life agenda, gaining ground in the polls.

In September, Farage spoke at the American Congress where he attacked Britain’s free-speech laws. The move was brokered by the conservative Christian group Alliance Defending Freedom (ADF). ADF are known for their role in overturning Roe v. Wade and their connections with right-wing figures such as US Vice President JD Vance.

The UK is a very pro-choice country and has made significant strides to strengthen women’s reproductive rights in recent years, for example, by making at-home medical abortions permanently available in England and Wales in 2022, and by decriminalising abortion for pregnant woman in 2025.  

As part of Synchronicity’s coverage, we are now producing podcasts. The new series looks at social and political stories that have not been covered thoroughly or at all by mainstream media. We hope you enjoy this new medium and remember, you can support us on Buy Me a Coffee where your contributions go directly into producing independent and impactful journalism. Together, we can make a real difference, one story at a time.

Abortion Rights: The US Effect on the UK

PRESENTERS: Mark A. Silberstein and Daniella Maisano

PRODUCTION: Mark A. Silberstein and Enter HUMAN

MUSIC & DESIGN: Enter HUMAN

Released on 11 November 2025