The abortion law reform in Ireland : A process-tracing study on the role of issue networks in gender policy questions

Abstract: This thesis examines the repeal of the eight amendment of Ireland’s constitution in 2018. The thesis builds on the concept of how issue networks can succeed to push for gender policy reforms when there is a favourable opportunity context in State institutions. The fit also depends on the Church-State Relations. This paper examines Htun’s framework on issue networks and how they can fit into State institutions. We observe a few prominent advocacy groups prior and during the general election in 2016. The result shows how issue networks in Ireland had access and leverage to affect policy process. This is explained by the tension in relations between Church and State which made issue networks more successful. The window of opportunity due to the general election and the Citizen’s Assembly gave leverage to issue networks to promote policy change in abortion.