Respect for the sacred meaning of the transmission of human life has moved the Holy See to point out, above all, the responsibility that should characterize parents' decision to have or not to have a child, in any given moment. This responsibility implies not only their own personal fulfillment, but also their responsibility before God, before the new life that comes into the world, existing children and society, according to a just hierarchy of moral values. Regarding abortion and access to abortion, the Holy See affirms that human life begins at the moment of conception and that this should be defended and protected. The Holy See can never excuse abortion and policies that favor abortion, which it considers a crime. The Holy See affirms that the right of conscientious objection on behalf of health care providers in these matters is guaranteed, among others, by Article 18 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
Sexuality is recognized as an important aspect of personal identity.
It is not difficult to understand that sexuality finds its own profound expression in a context of reciprocity. Nevertheless, some programs promoted by the United Nations are inspired by an understanding of sexuality that does not give the necessary consideration to the dimension of reciprocity which is the expression of mutual love and of a decision made in the context of a stable conjugal relationship, while conveying, on the contrary, an individualistic and permissive attitude toward sexual behavior that corrodes a proper understanding of human dignity and the moral responsibility of every person. A permissive attitude regarding sexuality ruins the family, weakens the responsibility of parents, goes against the well-being of the children and has a highly unstabilizing effect on society in general. The Catholic Church is concerned for the life and health of every human being, convinced of the sacredness of human life endowed with innate dignities and rights. Therefore, she joins forces with all those who battle against the true causes of death, such as poverty and ignorance.