Italian Bill Criminalising Surrogacy Abroad

July 27, 2023

The Italian parliament recently made a significant decision to criminalize surrogacy abroad, sparking both support and controversy. The bill, which received 166 votes in favor and 109 against, is aimed at imposing penalties on Italians who engage in surrogacy overseas. This move has raised concerns and drawn reactions from various groups, making it a matter of intense debate within the country.

The Surrogacy Ban and Penalties

The approved bill targets individuals seeking surrogacy arrangements outside Italy. Those found breaking this ban could face hefty fines, reaching up to €1 million, and possible jail terms of up to two years. The goal is to deter Italians from participating in surrogacy practices abroad, given that surrogacy is already illegal within the country.

Advocacy by Brothers of Italy

The push to extend the ban on surrogacy to overseas practices came from the Brothers of Italy party. This move aligns with their policy objectives, supported by their leader, Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. The party also forms a coalition with the far-right League party. The bill’s approval in the chamber of deputies marks a significant step towards making the ban a reality.

Surrogacy and IVF in Italy

Surrogacy is already prohibited in Italy, and in-vitro fertilization (IVF) is accessible solely to heterosexual couples. The combination of these restrictions creates a challenging environment for individuals and couples seeking alternative means of parenthood.

Concerns and Criticisms

While the bill finds support from some quarters, it has also attracted criticism. The LGBTQ+ community in Italy fears that the ban on surrogacy and related policies may erode the rights and opportunities they have achieved thus far. Meloni’s government has been accused of prioritizing easier policies over addressing more pressing issues that the nation faces.

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