The
Rights to Be Childfree
The decision to be childfree, that is, to not have children,
is a personal choice that is increasingly being recognized and respected in
many societies. It is regarded as a fundamental right that should be respected
no matter what their reasons are for choosing to be childfree as that is their
own responsibility as human beings. This article explores the rights associated
with this choice and the societal implications of being childfree.
Understanding
Childfree
The term “childfree” refers to individuals or couples who
consciously choose not to have children. This is distinct from being
“childless”, which refers to those who would have liked to have children but
could not for various reasons.
The right to be childfree is actually the decision or
lifestyle choice of not having children, whether biological, stepchildren, or
adopted. This trend began to appear towards the end of the 20th century.
Nowadays, the trend has been increasing broadly and even has been considered as
a social movement in many countries.
The Right
to Choose
The International Conference on Population and Development’s
“Programme of Action” adopted in 1994, states that all couples and individuals
have the basic right to decide freely and responsibly the number and spacing of
their children. This includes the choice to have zero children, thus
recognizing the right to be childfree.
In the Indonesian constitution as mandated in Article 28B
Paragraph 1 of the 1945 Constitution of the Republic of Indonesia states that
continuing offspring is a right and not an obligation. Therefore, everyone is
free to choose whether they want to have children or not at all.
Societal
Implications
Despite the recognition of this right, those who choose to
be childfree often face societal pressure and stigma. This is largely due to
pro-natalism, a deep-seated belief held nearly ubiquitously around the world,
that child-bearing and parenthood are key arbiters of a successful human
lifetime.
However, it is important to note that people’s identities or
intrinsic worth should not be measured primarily in terms of their childbearing
decisions. Whether someone chooses to be childfree, or to have a large family,
or to have fewer children for reasons such as contributing to global
sustainability, they are much more than the outcomes of their reproductive
careers.
Conclusion
The right to be childfree is a fundamental aspect of
reproductive freedom. It is a choice that should be respected and protected.
While societal norms and expectations may often challenge this choice, it is
crucial to remember that everyone has the right to decide what is best for
them. The decision to be childfree is a valid and important one, deserving of
respect and understanding.
Remember, to have or not have children is a human right that
everybody should be able to exercise without judgment or criticism. Whether for
social, economic, environmental, or other reasons, the choice to be childfree
is a deeply personal one, and it is a choice that should be respected.
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View More:
https://www.populationmedia.org/the-latest/what-does-childfree-mean
https://populationmatters.org/choosing-childfree/
https://www.atlantis-press.com/proceedings/iccee-21/125974082
https://worldschildrensprize.org/explore-right-to-be-free
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