The referendum on the Eighth Amendment of the Constitution of Ireland represented a pivotal moment in the nation’s social evolution regarding reproductive rights. The Eighth Amendment, enacted in 1983, recognized the equal right to life of the mother and the unborn, effectively prohibiting abortion except in limited circumstances such as when the mother's life was endangered. Over subsequent years, increasing awareness and advocacy against such restrictions emerged, prompted by heartbreaking stories of women forced to travel abroad for necessary medical procedures or subjected to life-threatening conditions due to the lack of legal abortion options in Ireland.

As the political landscape evolved, the Repeal the Eighth campaign galvanized support from various groups, creating a broad coalition of advocates for women's rights. Voices of women affected by the amendment rose to prominence, raising critical awareness about the dire implications of the law. The referendum held on May 25, 2018, saw nearly two-thirds of voters cast their ballots in favor of repeal, signaling a decisive shift in public opinion towards more progressive, health-centered policies.

This widespread support not only highlighted a generational divide but also emphasized Ireland's transformation from a country deeply rooted in conservative Catholic values to one more aligned with modern, liberal perspectives. The passing of the Thirty-sixth Amendment allowed for legislation to be introduced, providing for access to abortion services in Ireland under certain conditions, reflecting a newfound recognition of women’s autonomy over their bodies and reproductive choices.