A key EU law to ensure equal recognition of parenthood across EU member states has been blocked by Hungary and is a slap in the face to LGBTQI families, MEP Maria Walsh has said.
The new European Certificate of Parenthood allows for the recognition of parenthood established in another EU country, and is a key component in the fight for the full recognition of the rights of European Rainbow Families.
An estimated 2 million children may currently face difficulties in having their parents recognised in another EU Member State. MEP Maria Walsh raised this issue during a debate in the European Parliament this week.
MEP Maria Walsh, member of the European Parliament’s LGBTQI Intergroup, said:
“Under current European law, a child can effectively lose their parents when they travel from one EU country to another. This is a kick in the teeth to Rainbow Families in particular who are discriminated against across Europe.
“Due to the fact that several EU countries do not recognise same-sex marriage, LGBTIQ parents and their children are deprived of their rights – a stain on the European project in the 21st century.
“Rainbow Families receive fewer benefits and fewer protections than heterosexual couples, with limited access to tax credits, inheritance, healthcare, and parental leave in some cases. For others, securing a family name is a struggle and in the most extreme cases, children can end up stateless.
“The creation of a new European Certificate of Parenthood would recognize the parenthood of all children irrespective of how they were conceived or born, their type of family, and the nationality of the child and their parents. If you are a parent in one EU country, you are a parent in all EU countries.
“Sadly, anti-LGBTQI forces are at play in the EU and are weaponising this legislation in an attack on Rainbow parents and children. The legislation is currently ‘stuck’ in the Council due to opposition from countries including Hungary – the strongest force fighting against the LGBTQI community in Europe.
“Ireland must play a leading role in pushing this issue forward by engaging directly with those Member States who oppose such progress. Without this action, families across the EU will continue to face discrimination, unfair legal costs and unequal access to care and services.”
