Italy Bans Surrogacy, Stirs Debate on Parental Rights

Recently, Italy's parliament passed a law making it illegal for couples to seek surrogacy abroad. This move, backed by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's conservative party, is seen as targeting LGBTQ+ couples. Since taking office, Meloni has been pushing for traditional family values, making it tougher for same-sex couples to become parents. The Senate approved the bill with 84 votes to 58, following earlier approval by the lower house. The legislation extends Italy's 2004 ban on surrogacy to those who go to countries where it's legal, like the U. S. or Canada. Violators face jail time of up to two years and fines reaching 1 million euros. Senator Lavinia Mennuni stated that motherhood shouldn't be substituted and is the foundation of their civilization. Meloni has called surrogacy an "inhuman" practice, aligning with the Catholic Church's views. Protesters near the Senate expressed outrage, saying the government is penalizing those who want kids despite Italy's declining birth rate. LGBTQ+ activist Franco Grillini noted that having a baby should be celebrated, not criminalized. Rainbow Families President Alessia Crocini revealed that 90% of Italians seeking surrogacy are heterosexual but do so secretly. The new ban could disproportionately affect gay couples who can't hide their actions. This comes amidst Italy's 15th consecutive year of declining births. "This law is unprecedented," Grillini said, criticizing the government's move to block practices legal in other countries.