Tag results for 'intentional mother'

Non-biological mothers gained equal parental rights through constitutional court judgment in Italy

A recent judgment of the Italian Constitutional Court stated that the so-called ‘intentional mother’ (in a female same-sex couple, the non-biological mother) is entitled to the mandatory leave of absence from work which is normally intended for fathers in opposite-sex couples. This article explains the rationale for the ruling and how this decision may open the way towards the recognition of diverse family structures and contribute to the principle of equal treatment, thus indicating a meaningful signal of change that could, over time, contribute to potentially strengthening the legal status of LGBTQ+ families in Italy. It also considers the broader implications that this first step may have for Italian law, European human rights standards and international debates on inclusive family rights, including at the workplace.

Released on Oct 6, 2025