Chapter 16 - The Croatian experience: Cultural and political factors shaping human embryo assessment during assisted reproductive technology

Abstract

Throughout our modern history, we have witnessed how shifts in cultural attitudes and state policies can be instrumental when defining aspects of reproductive health. Cultural and political factors arising from socially conservative and religious values have been on the rise throughout Europe, including Croatia. Some issues remain regarding Croatian laws regulating assisted reproductive technology. For example, options are limited for cryopreserved surplus embryos or the possibility of their destruction. In addition, the law does not allow in vitro fertilization (IVF) for same-sex partners, and there is ongoing public discussion regarding the grounds for conscientious objection of health and non-health workers. Finally, repercussions from the economic crisis render the ability to screen for preimplantation genetic diagnosis and preimplantation genetic screening unachievable. As a result of these unclear regulations, today's Croatian IVF treatments of infertile patients are forced to operate within a narrow framework.