Media Reaction Sparks Strong Response
Maria Karystianou issued a response following the uproar that erupted after her statement on abortions on 19 1 asserting that her words were deliberately distorted.
Allegations of Selective Media Focus
She argued that the majority of the media ignored every institutional issue she raised in her interview with journalists Stravelakis and Karamitrou choosing instead to focus exclusively on an ill timed question about abortions which reporters prioritized over major national concerns.
Concerns About National Challenges
Karystianou emphasized that significant matters such as government scandals institutional deviations the struggles of farmers rising prices poverty and the deterioration of health care and education were sidelined.
Her Statement Addressing Misrepresentation
She stated that her comments on abortions were intentionally twisted by individuals aiming to undermine her contributing to what she described as a political contract to assassinate her character.
Defense of Human Rights
Karystianou stressed that no human right is open for public debate negotiation or political exploitation contrary to how some attempted to present it.
Criticism Toward Her Opponents
According to her those criticizing her using this sensitive medical and legal topic do not actually care about womens issues motherhood demographics childrens rights or the challenges families face.
Lack of Consideration for Womens Real Conditions
She added that critics have never considered the reasons behind why women or couples might choose abortion nor the ethical complexities involved.
Attempt to Halt a Growing Movement
Karystianou claimed that the real aim of her attackers is to stop the growing momentum of a movement that seeks to redirect public discussion and put society at the heart of decision making.
Call for Meaningful Public Dialogue
She clarified that the public dialogue she mentioned concerns the real social causes that lead thousands of women to make such a difficult decision including lack of information limited access to modern contraception minimal sexual education and gaps in social welfare.
Proposals for Social Support Structures
She argued that society needs strong social welfare systems for pregnant women and new mothers free access to family planning and contraception support for single parent families and benefits that prevent women from choosing between pregnancy and career or studies.
Demographic Crisis Requires Social Support
She noted that the demographic and existential crisis of the country cannot be solved through restrictions on rights but through a strong social state that offers real choices and support.
Meaningful Freedom for Women
According to Karystianou womens freedom becomes substantial only when accompanied by economic security health access decent working conditions and protection of motherhood.
A Needed Dialogue for Public Health and Social Welfare
She emphasized the need for a discussion focused on public health social welfare and institutional respect ensuring that no woman is driven to an impasse because of fear ignorance or abandonment.
Message of Responsibility and Solidarity
Karystianou concluded by expressing her belief in a society that supports women and children through prevention information and solidarity rather than division.
