Merz Ally Spahn Resigns over Surrogacy-Born Child

Jens Spahn, chairman of the German CDU/CSU parliamentary group, has announced his resignation after coming under intense political pressure in connection with the birth of his child via a surrogate mother in the United States.

The case sparked controversy mainly because the CDU has long opposed the legalization of surrogacy and, in February, once again supported maintaining the ban on it in Germany.

Spahn acknowledged that the decision was personally difficult for him and that he had been grappling with the issue of surrogacy for a long time. He also announced that he would explain his situation to members of his parliamentary caucus.

Critics within his own party point out that his personal decision contradicts the values the CDU advocates.

Chancellor Friedrich Merz described the issue as sensitive from legal, ethical and social perspectives, but emphasized that he sees no reason to change the current legislation banning surrogacy.

(Reuters, mja)