Francis Urges Ban on Surrogacy, Calling It ‘Despicable’

The New York Times: Pope Francis strongly condemned surrogate motherhood, labeling it “despicable” and calling for a global ban. He criticized the practice for treating unborn children as objects and exploiting mothers, especially those in financial need. Surrogacy is illegal in Italy and regulated in various European countries. While Francis has generally focused on other issues like migrant care and poverty, he maintains firm opposition to surrogacy and abortion. The Catholic Church opposes surrogacy and in vitro fertilization on ethical and theological grounds. Francis has criticized what he sees as ideological colonization by wealthy nations imposing their values on others. His comments on surrogacy align with his critique of consumerism and the commodification of life. Despite recently allowing blessings for same-sex couples, the Church clarifies this is not an endorsement of their lifestyles but an expression of pastoral care. Francis’ remarks were part of his annual foreign policy address to diplomats, where he also discussed global conflicts and injustices, including the war in Ukraine and the situation in Gaza.

The entire article can be read at the link https://www.nytimes.com/2024/01/08/world/europe/pope-francis-surrogacy-ban.html