New and old parenting: reflections about assisted reproductive technologies in view of recent Italian law.

Abstract

The constant advancement of reproduction technologies has broadened the panorama of possible techniques and has led to a profound change in the concept of the family that has so far been widespread. Assisted reproductive techniques (ART) currently allow to conceive a human being in the absence of physical connection between man and woman. In light of the possibility of conception using heterologous techniques, the concept of parent/child relationship may also be changed. This contribution is intended to highlight how the concept of family is changing and may change in the future in the light of the new ART and the principles recently affirmed in Italian jurisprudence. In the light of the above considerations, it appears of primary importance to definitively clarify the position and rights of the involved parties, underlining the need for an adequate and timely intervention aimed at resolving, among the various issues, the conflict between the donor's interest in protect his/her anonymity and their child's interest in knowing his/her their origins.