Italy has enacted a law that bans couples from traveling abroad for surrogacy, a move aligned with the conservative agenda of Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, impacting many seeking alternative pathways to parenthood.
Italy Prohibits Couples from Seeking Surrogacy Abroad
Italy Prohibits Couples from Seeking Surrogacy Abroad
Italy's new law restricts international surrogacy, impacting LGBT couples and furthering conservative policies.
In a significant policy shift, Italy has enacted a law that prohibits couples from seeking surrogacy services abroad, extending its existing ban on the practice within its borders. This measure, championed by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's far-right government, targets those seeking surrogacy in countries where it is legal, such as the United States or Canada. Violators of this law risk imprisonment of up to two years and hefty fines reaching €1 million (£835,000).
Critics see this legislation as a direct attack on the rights of LGBT couples, who already face significant barriers in Italy regarding adoption and in-vitro fertilization (IVF). Surrogacy involves a woman carrying a child for another couple, often due to infertility issues or when the intended parents are in a same-sex relationship. The legislation passed in the Italian Senate with an 84-to-58 majority, which has sparked widespread protests and demonstrations from opponents.
Franco Grillini, an LGBT activist, expressed dismay at the law, asserting it hampers the ability for individuals to become parents amidst Italy's declining birth rate. “If someone has a baby, they should be given a medal,” he remarked. “Instead, you are sent to jail if you don't have children in the traditional way.” He criticized the law as unique and draconian compared to other nations.
The bill is a reflection of Meloni's socially conservative agenda, as she has previously declared her belief in traditional family structures comprising a man and a woman. Anti-LGBT rhetoric featured heavily in her electoral campaign, declaring support for "natural families," while directly contesting the influence of the LGBT community. Reports indicate that Meloni's administration has also directed local governments to stop recognizing children of same-sex couples.
Carolina Varchi, the MP behind the legislation, has asserted that the law is primarily aimed at protecting women involved in surrogacy, claiming most surrogacy users in Italy are heterosexual. Experts note, however, that a significant number of heterosexual couples opt for international surrogacy due to restrictive domestic laws, often concealing their arrangements upon return to Italy.
This law places same-sex families at further risk, as they may face heightened scrutiny upon returning to Italy with a child after utilizing surrogacy services abroad. The global landscape of surrogacy varies considerably, with Italy alongside nations like Spain and France implementing strict bans, while other countries such as the US and Canada offer legal protections and recognition for same-sex couples seeking surrogacy.
As the new law takes effect, conversations about the rights of LGBT families, the challenges surrounding surrogacy, and the impact of conservative policies in Italy are likely to intensify.
