Italy Outlaws Overseas Surrogacy
Italy makesOutlaws itOverseas illegal to seek surrogacy abroadSurrogacy
The Facts
On Wednesday, the Italian parliament made it illegal for couples to travel abroad for surrogacy, a pet project of Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's party that activists claim targets same-sex partners.
The ban now includes individuals who travel to countries where it is legal, such as the US or Canada. Lawbreakers could face two years in prison and a fine of €1M ($1.1M).
The Spin
Surrogacy has no place in Italy. In fact, there should be an universal crime, as surrogacy is an inhuman practice. Renting an uterus is not like any other supermarket product that you can buy over-the-counter. The new legislation will criminalize italians who pursue surrogacy in countries where it is legal. The Italian government is in line with the Catholic Church when it comes to surragacy.
Surrogacy is already outlawed in Italy. Meloni's post-fascist government has sought to impose yet another crackdown on LGBT families, and this bill makes it nearly impossible for gay men to have children. Italy already ranks low in Europe for civil freedoms. Making it unlawful for Italians to start a family through surrogacy overseas will not help Italy's standing.
