Italian parents who have made the often challenging and costly choice to have children through surrogacy abroad are now in a state of anxiety. This is due to a sudden change in Italy’s already stringent rules regarding raising those children within the country. Critics argue that the Italy surrogacy ban reflects outdated views on family and reproduction. #ItalySurrogacyBan
Italy has expanded its laws on surrogacy, which has been banned since 2004, to now prohibit “surrogacy tourism” in nations like the United States and Canada. Any intended parent who violates this law may face fines of up to €1 million ($1 million) and possible prison sentences of up to two years.
While the law does not impact parents with children born via surrogacy who are already registered in Italy, many parents of younger children fear they could still face repercussions when their kids reach school age and need to enroll in public education.
The legislation passed the Italian Senate with an 84-58 vote after a passionate debate lasting over seven hours. At times, the discussion nearly escalated into physical confrontations.
Demonstrators outside the Senate held signs stating, “We are families, not crimes,” alongside photos of their children under the phrase, “the children we could never have.” Some critics labeled the proposed law a “medieval” decision in interviews with Italian media.
The ruling far-right Brothers of Italy party, led by Giorgia Meloni, introduced the bill. The prime minister personally pushed for this measure. She has found support from Pope Francis on the surrogacy issue. This situation highlights the political power of the Catholic Church in Italy, especially concerning reproductive matters.
Italy was among the last Western European countries to legalize same-sex unions, which it accomplished in 2016. However, it still does not recognize these unions as “marriage,” largely due to pressure from the Italian Catholic Church. #ItalySurrogacyBan
Meloni praised the Senate’s decision on X Wednesday, describing it as “a common sense rule against the commodification of the female body and children.” She stated, “Human life has no price and is not a commodity.”
Consequences of the Italy Surrogacy Ban
Moreover, this law places severe penalties on intended parents who engage in “surrogacy tourism.” Critics assert that the Italy surrogacy ban does not consider the emotional and financial struggles families endure. Consequently, many feel this legislation prioritizes ideology over real-life family needs.
