government

Groups oppose law

Several groups have come out against a proposed government law dealing with issues of sexuality and reproductive health.

María Olimpia De Obaldía, a lawyer representing the Alianza Panameña por la Vida y la Familia, said that the proposed law does not take into account age when it states that everyone can “decide freely and responsibly” about their sexuality and reproduction.

The lawyer said that the law should not be applied to children, but only to adults.

Another article that the alliance is concerned about states that: “There shall be no discrimination in the exercise of rights in matters of sexual and reproductive health, whether they come from the state or by individuals.”

Alliance member Juan Guardia said this provision violates the physical and spiritual development of children.

“It introduces a concept of ambiguous sex, teaching children from an early age about the different alternatives of sexual orientation,” he said.

Another controversial provision suggests that the state must ensure the availability of methods of fertility regulation either free or at a minimal cost.

Alliance members said this policy is akin to promoting pre-marital sex, especially among teenagers.

Ministra de Salud Rosario Turner said several organizations that participated in drafting the proposal agreed that there is a need for modern sex education, especially in light of the country's growing teen pregnancy rates.