Holy See to host meeting on abolishing surrogacy

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Today we are thrilled to share insights from a recent meeting on surrogacy held at the United Nations in Geneva. Gabriella Gambino, the Under-Secretary of the Dicastery for Laity, Family, and Life, led a thoughtful discussion on the urgent need for international cooperation to safeguard women and children from exploitation.

Surrogacy and Human Dignity

Surrogacy has been identified as a serious violation of the dignity and rights of women and children. Pope Francis has called for an absolute ban on all forms of surrogacy, a sentiment that is gaining global support across various political, ethical, and religious spectrums. Gambino highlighted these concerns during the meeting titled “At What Price? Towards the Abolition of Surrogacy”, held in Switzerland.

‘Procreative Tourism’

The phenomenon of ‘procreative tourism’, where individuals cross borders seeking surrogacy services due to differing national regulations, was discussed. Gambino stressed the need for a unified international response to prevent the exploitation of vulnerable individuals involved in surrogacy.

The Right to Dignity

Every child has the right to a fully human origin and the gift of life, according to the recent declaration by the Holy See’s Dicastery. Gambino emphasized that not all reproductive methods are ethical, and there is no legal right to a child that justifies any procreative practice. She pointed out the depersonalization, commodification, and exploitation inherent in surrogacy.

Expert Perspectives

The meeting featured insightful discussions by experts such as Italy’s Minister for Family, Olivia Maurel, a children’s rights advocate, Eva Maria Bachinger, a women’s rights activist, and Bettina Roska, a legal officer. Each speaker provided valuable perspectives on surrogacy from different angles.

It is evident from the meeting that international collaboration is vital to protect the dignity and rights of women and children in the context of surrogacy. Stay tuned for more updates on this crucial issue!