In a recent statement, Pope Francis strongly condemned the act of surrogacy, expressing his deep disapproval and calling for an international prohibition on this practice. He referred to the act of a woman carrying someone else’s child as highly contemptible and morally unacceptable. During a speech at the Vatican to diplomats on New Year’s, the elderly pontiff, aged 87, expressed his strong disapproval towards an act that he deemed a serious infringement upon both the woman’s and the child’s dignity.
Furthermore, in this proclamation that resonated throughout the globe, the leader of the global Catholic community emphasized the urgent need for resolving ongoing conflicts across nations. He stated that the pursuit of tranquility hinges upon unwavering reverence for the sanctity of life. His words shed light on the origins – in the sacred space of a mother’s womb – where the unborn child’s existence commences. Irrepressible and unyielding, it stands as a testament to the dichotomy between life and the abominable acts of exploitation and trade.
Certain states in the US have legalized commercial surrogacy.
The Pope finds the practice of surrogate motherhood to be extremely regrettable in this aspect. It signifies a serious infringement upon both the dignity of the woman as well as the child. This practice, according to him, primarily thrives on exploiting the vulnerable financial conditions of the mothers involved. Pope Francis said the universal prohibition of commercial exploitation of children is a resounding need, as they deserve to be cherished as precious blessings rather than treated as commodities in contractual agreements. It is his utmost desire that the international community unites with determination to eradicate what he considers an unethical practice.
Also, in the sixth month of 2022, June, the pope strongly denounced the act of surrogacy, labelling it as a practice devoid of humanity. In numerous countries such as Belgium, the Netherlands, UK, Canada, Brazil, and Colombia, it is permissible for a selfless act of surrogacy to take place. This occurs when a woman selflessly carries and gives birth to a baby for another woman or couple without any monetary transactions, aside from necessary expenses. Certain states in the United States have legalized and embraced the practice of commercial surrogacy.
Its legality and expense differ significantly across regions.
Additionally, in the realm of surrogacy, an agreement is formed, frequently accompanied by legal documentation, whereby a woman consents to undergo the process of childbirth on behalf of a different pair or individual. Subsequent to the baby’s arrival into the world, these designated individuals assume the role of its parent(s). In certain circumstances, individuals may consider a surrogacy arrangement as an alternative when a couple decides against carrying a pregnancy, when pregnancy becomes medically unfeasible, when the risks of pregnancy become perilous for the intended mother, or when a single man or a male couple in a same-sex relationship desire to become parents.
Monetary transactions may or may not take place in surrogacy agreements. The act of receiving financial compensation in such arrangements is commonly referred to as commercial surrogacy. The legality and expense of surrogacy differ significantly across regions, often leading to complex international or interstate arrangements. Couples who desire a surrogacy arrangement but face restrictions in their own country may opt to travel to another jurisdiction where it is permitted. In certain nations, the practice of surrogacy is permitted solely under the condition that monetary transactions are strictly prohibited.
Thorough screening procedures are conducted by third-party agencies.
Countries where commercial surrogacy is permitted ensure that couples have the option to enlist the aid of third-party organizations that specialize in facilitating the surrogacy process. These agencies take on the responsibility of locating a suitable surrogate and establishing a legally binding surrogacy agreement. Thorough screening procedures are conducted by these agencies, which include psychological evaluations and medical examinations, all aimed at ensuring a successful and healthy pregnancy. Moreover, they actively handle all legal aspects that arise between the intended parents and the surrogate, ensuring a smooth and legally sound process for all parties involved.