In a speech addressing global peace and human dignity, Pope Francis condemned the practice of surrogate motherhood and called for a universal ban on its commercialization, deeming it a despicable act.

During a speech about foreign relations to ambassadors recognized by the Vatican, Francis expressed sorrow that the year 2024 has arrived in a period where peace is facing more threats and becoming weaker and, in some cases, non-existent.

Referring to the conflict in Ukraine, the conflict between Israel and Hamas, the problem of migration, climate emergencies, and the unethical creation of nuclear and traditional weapons, Francis presented a catalogue of the problems plaguing humanity and the growing disregard for international humanitarian laws that enables them.

However, Francis also mentioned smaller concerns that he believes pose a danger to peace and the value of human life, such as surrogacy. He emphasized the importance of safeguarding the rights of unborn children and not allowing them to be exploited or treated as objects.

He expressed strong disapproval for the act of surrogate motherhood, labeling it a serious infringement on the rights and worth of both the woman and child. He believes it takes advantage of mothers in vulnerable financial situations.

He stated that a child should be considered a blessing and not a product for sale, and urged for a worldwide prohibition on surrogacy to prevent its use everywhere.

The Vatican’s stance is against in vitro fertilization, and Pope Francis has expressed the Catholic Church’s disapproval of surrogacy, also known as “renting a uterus.” However, the Vatican’s doctrine office has stated that children born to same-sex parents through surrogacy can still be baptized.

Although commercial surrogacy agreements are prevalent in the United States and provide safeguards for the surrogate mothers, such as independent legal representation and medical insurance, they are prohibited in certain European countries like Spain and Italy.

The conflict in Ukraine involving Russia and the potential danger for infants born to surrogate mothers in Ukraine has brought attention to the country’s flourishing surrogacy business. Ukraine is among the limited number of nations that permit surrogacy for non-citizens.

Some people argue that commercial surrogacy preys on impoverished women and those from marginalized communities. Others believe that surrogacy allows women to help couples who cannot have children, and that the legal agreements safeguard the rights of both the surrogate and the intended parents.

The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops referenced Francis’ statement in order to clarify the Catholic Church’s stance on the morality of surrogacy.

Spokesperson Chieko Noguchi stated that we should strive for a world that respects the inherent worth of every individual, regardless of their stage or situation in life. Prayer and effort should be directed towards this goal.

In his summary of international politics, Francis specifically mentioned Russia as the aggressor in the ongoing conflict with Ukraine. This was a departure from his usual approach of avoiding direct and open criticism of Moscow while showing support for the Ukrainian people.

Francis was more balanced in his lament of Israel’s ongoing war in Gaza, condemning Hamas’ Oct. 7 assault on southern Israel “and every instance of terrorism and extremism.” At the same time, he said the attack provoked a “strong Israeli military response” that had left thousands dead and created a humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

The speaker urged for an urgent end to fighting, both in Lebanon and for the release of captives in Gaza. They also restated the stance of the Holy See, which supports a two-state resolution for Israel and Palestine, as well as a protected status for Jerusalem that is recognized by the international community.

In additional remarks, Francis:

The speaker mourned the numerous humanitarian and refugee crises occurring in Africa. They also condemned military coups and corrupt elections in various African nations that have been characterized by intimidation and violence.

The speaker urged for a civil and respectful conversation with the government of Nicaragua in order to address the ongoing crisis. The government’s actions against the Catholic Church have led to the arrest of numerous priests and bishops. The government has accused the church of supporting protests against their administration, which they view as an attempted overthrow.

“The resumption of Iran nuclear talks is urgently needed to secure a safer future for all. The International Atomic Energy Agency reported last month that Iran has accelerated the production of near-weapons-grade uranium, a reversal from their previous slowdown.”

According to Francis, the production and possession of nuclear weapons are equally immoral. He has previously revised church doctrine to declare the possession of these weapons as unacceptable, and on Monday he expanded his criticism to include their manufacture within the weapons industry.

“Maybe we should recognize more distinctly that the casualties of war are not simply ‘collateral damage’, but rather individuals with identities who have tragically lost their lives,” he stated. “They are innocent children who have been left without parents and a future.”