Italy’s Prime Minister Proposes Financial Aid for Pregnant Women Who Reject Abortion

17.07.2024

Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has introduced a "maternity income" bill aimed at providing financial assistance to pregnant women in financial distress who choose not to have an abortion. Sponsored by Sen. Maurizio Gasparri, the bill offers €1,000 annually for five years to women continuing their pregnancies who suffer financial difficulties.

The initiative seeks to address economic reasons behind abortions, drawing from Article 5 of Italy's Law 194. Senator Gasparri emphasised the moral and financial support for women deciding against abortion, advocating for the protection of life.

Scheduled for introduction next week, the bill proposes additional aid of €50 monthly for the second child and €100 up to age 18 for children with disabilities. The "maternity income" fund would be financed with €600 million annually. Eligibility requires an Indicator of Equivalent Economic Situation (ISEE) below €15,000.

In April, Meloni approved measures to reduce abortions, including allowing pro-life volunteers access to abortion centers to offer support to women contemplating abortion. While abortion has been legal in Italy since 1978 under Law 194, Meloni's pro-life measures aim to offer alternatives by addressing financial pressures that may lead to abortion.