The Vatican's recent declaration, titled "Infinite Dignity," has sparked controversy by equating gender-affirming surgery and surrogacy with practices such as abortion and euthanasia, deeming them serious violations of human dignity. Approved by Pope Francis after a five-year preparation period, the document asserts that gender is an immutable biological trait, rejecting the concept of gender fluidity and warning against attempts to alter one's biological sex, which it views as an attempt to "play God."
While the Vatican draws a distinction between gender-affirming surgeries and treatments for congenital or acquired genital abnormalities, critics, including LGBTQ+ advocates, argue that the document is outdated and harmful. They fear it could fuel discrimination and violence against transgender individuals.
The document also addresses surrogacy, condemning it as a violation of the dignity of both the surrogate mother and the child.
It emphasizes the child's right to a life that respects their dignity, asserting that the desire for a child cannot justify the exploitation of women through surrogacy.
Despite affirming the dignity of LGBTQ+ individuals, the Vatican's stance on gender and sexuality has faced criticism for being insensitive and disconnected from the realities of LGBTQ+ lives. The document's release coincides with a time of increasing hostility towards transgender individuals, with some countries considering legislation to restrict their rights and access to healthcare.
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