Death of Étienne-Émile Baulieu: A Catalyst for Diverging Views on Abortion Pill Legacy
The passing of Étienne-Émile Baulieu, the pioneering biochemist behind the abortion pill, has sparked a myriad of reactions from both pro-life and pro-choice communities. Baulieu, who passed away at 98 in Paris, was renowned for developing RU-486, or mifepristone, in the early 1980s, a drug that significantly impacted women’s reproductive rights globally.
According to The New York Times, Baulieu collaborated with French pharmaceutical company Roussel-Uclaf to create the drug, believing it could prevent fatalities from unsafe abortions. “RU-486 can save them,” Baulieu asserted in a 1989 interview with Science.
Pro-life advocates, however, have consistently opposed abortion drugs, citing risks to both unborn children and the health of pregnant women. Concerns have also been raised about the distribution of such drugs via mail without proper medical oversight, potentially missing complications like ectopic pregnancies.
In a 2022 interview with The New Yorker, Baulieu addressed criticisms, attributing opposition to “ideology and machismo” overshadowing “rationality and scientific proof.” He argued that the pill reduces physical trauma and health risks for women, stating that pro-lifers aim to “harm and punish women.”
Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America
Emily Davis from Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America remarked on Baulieu’s legacy as one of “death and deception,” claiming that his drug has fueled the abortion industry. She highlighted the misleading safety comparisons between abortion drugs and common medications like Tylenol, urging for defunding of abortion services.
The Charlotte Lozier Institute, an affiliate of Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America, published a report challenging the safety claims surrounding mifepristone.
Simone Harari Baulieu
Baulieu’s wife, Simone Harari Baulieu, confirmed his death via a social media post, noting his lifelong commitment to science. Baulieu also founded an institute in 2008 focused on neurodegenerative diseases.
National Right to Life
Randall K. O’Bannon of National Right to Life expressed regret over Baulieu’s focus on population control rather than life-saving endeavors, criticizing his contributions to abortion methods.
Emmanuel Macron
French President Emmanuel Macron praised Baulieu as a “courageous scout” and a “progressive spirit” who advanced women’s freedom. Baulieu was honored with the Grand-Croix de la Legion d’Honneur in 2023 for his contributions.
Family Research Council
Mary Szoch from the Family Research Council urged prayers for Baulieu’s redemption, highlighting the negative impact of his work on unborn babies.
Kamala Harris
Former U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris celebrated Baulieu’s impact on women’s lives globally, recalling her mother’s work with him in Paris. Baulieu cherished a glass bowl gifted by Harris, symbolizing their connection.
Heritage Foundation
Melanie Israel from The Heritage Foundation emphasized that the millions of unborn lives lost to the abortion pill are a tragedy, not progress. She advocated for celebrating life-affirming scientific advancements instead.
According to a 2024 U.S. FDA report, approximately 7.5 million women have used mifepristone since its approval in 2000, highlighting the ongoing debate over its legacy.
This article was originally written by www.christiantoday.com
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