Usually it seems that European countries were a little ahead of the curve when it came to certain topics. Yet it took until 2013 for France to get with the times just to legalize same sex marriage and adoption. Prior to this same sex couples could live together, but they couldn’t be married and couldn’t start a family.

“A matter of social justice”

Although not currently in effect, new legislation that will allow same sex couples and single women to utilize assisted reproduction is expected to pass in 2018. reports BFM TV. Once this new law comes into effect it will level the playing field for all who wish to have a family, rather than it only being possible for the wealthy who can go out of country for it, as it is now.

Legislation was a campaign promise to women only

The election of the new French president, Macron, in May is bringing about these changes. The bill was actually a campaign promise and will mark a significant leap in the rights of same sex couples and gay people within French borders, reports the minister for gender equality Marlene Schiappa.

French law makes medical VISAs a necessity

Infertile couples or same sex couples are restricted from using donated sperm or fertility techniques and treatments such as artificial insemination.

Currently, same sex couples must travel abroad on medical VISAs to what accounts as a “repro tour.” Schiappa points out the class injustice in this as women or couples without the financial means to do so will not have the opportunity to conceive a child in this way. Financial restrictions limit reproductive availability and IVF opportunity so she considers it unjust.

Not quite all the way there yet for men

In June, medically assisted procreation was approved for female couples or single women only by a national ethics committee, leaving men out in the cold. Maybe in the future men will have the same rights granted to them in a future bill on their behalf.

Photo: PIERRE VILLARD/SIPA