Italy has implemented a new law criminalizing couples traveling abroad for surrogacy, reflecting the socially conservative stance of Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's government. The legislation extends an existing national ban on surrogacy to cover all individuals who pursue the practice in jurisdictions where it is legal, such as the United States and Canada. Offenders risk imprisonment for up to two years and fines reaching €1 million (£835,710).
Italy Enforces Strict Ban on International Surrogacy for Couples
Italy Enforces Strict Ban on International Surrogacy for Couples
Italy's new law prohibits couples from seeking surrogacy abroad, raising concerns over discrimination against LGBT families.
The law was passed in the Senate by an 84-58 vote amidst protests from critics who argue it further complicates the path to parenthood, particularly in light of Italy's declining birth rate. LGBTQ+ activist Franco Grillini voiced strong opposition, suggesting the law penalizes those seeking to become parents, regardless of their family configuration. He emphasized that society should celebrate those who choose to have children rather than threaten them with imprisonment.
Prime Minister Meloni, who leads the far-right Brothers of Italy party, has openly opposed surrogacy, especially among same-sex couples. Her administration has a history of promoting a traditional view of family, asserting that children should only be raised by a mother and father. She has previously characterized surrogacy as detrimental to society, equating it with commodifying life.
The context for this ban includes a wider pattern of legislation that critics argue targets LGBT couples. Prior actions by Meloni's government include halting the registration of children of same-sex parents in Milan. Despite claims made by Carolina Varchi, the MP who drafted the legislation, that the ban is designed to protect women, experts argue it predominantly impacts the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals.
Internationally, perspectives on surrogacy vary significantly. While countries like Italy and Spain uphold bans on surrogacy, others, such as the United States and Canada, offer more inclusive practices for same-sex couples. As debates around this contentious issue continue, members of the LGBT community in Italy remain vigilant about the implications of these legal restrictions.
Prime Minister Meloni, who leads the far-right Brothers of Italy party, has openly opposed surrogacy, especially among same-sex couples. Her administration has a history of promoting a traditional view of family, asserting that children should only be raised by a mother and father. She has previously characterized surrogacy as detrimental to society, equating it with commodifying life.
The context for this ban includes a wider pattern of legislation that critics argue targets LGBT couples. Prior actions by Meloni's government include halting the registration of children of same-sex parents in Milan. Despite claims made by Carolina Varchi, the MP who drafted the legislation, that the ban is designed to protect women, experts argue it predominantly impacts the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals.
Internationally, perspectives on surrogacy vary significantly. While countries like Italy and Spain uphold bans on surrogacy, others, such as the United States and Canada, offer more inclusive practices for same-sex couples. As debates around this contentious issue continue, members of the LGBT community in Italy remain vigilant about the implications of these legal restrictions.
