Italian Prime Minister Defends Civil Rights: No Backwards Steps on Abortion or LGBTQ+ Rights

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni addressed concerns about civil rights in Italy during the G7 summit in Borgo Egnazia. She stated that her government has not taken any steps backwards in terms of issues like the right to abortion or LGBT rights. The topic of the right to abortion was a point of contention during the summit, as the final declaration did not mention it, drawing criticism from leaders like French President Emmanuel Macron.

In Italy, abortion has been legal since 1978, allowing for the procedure within the first 90 days of pregnancy. However, access to abortion can be difficult due to many Catholic doctors in hospitals refusing to perform the procedure. This has led to challenges in regions where a large majority of doctors refuse to provide abortions. Meloni has clarified that she does not plan to change the abortion law, but aims to provide alternatives to abortion.

Meanwhile, thousands of people gathered for the Gay Pride Parade in Rome to advocate for equal rights for the LGBTQ+ community. Participants marched through the city center waving rainbow flags and dancing to celebrate. Some individuals used the event as an opportunity to protest against Meloni’s right-wing government. Despite Italy only legalizing civil partnerships in 2016, excluding adoption rights for same-sex couples due to pressure from Catholic parties and organizations, Italian courts have permitted adoptions by civil partners in the past.