MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on exempting newborn babies and their parents from social distancing rules
7.5.2020
Christine Anderson
B9‑0155/2020
Motion for a European Parliament resolution on exempting newborn babies and their parents from social distancing rules
The European Parliament,
– having regard to the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights, and in particular Articles 1, 7, 9 and 24 thereof,
– having regard to Rule 143 of its Rules of Procedure,
A. whereas the Member States have introduced rules to curb the COVID-19 pandemic which require mothers to wear a protective mask in the delivery room during labour and, in some cases, when breast-feeding, or forbid fathers from being present at the birth of their child;
B. whereas children have a right to protection and care as is necessary for their well-being, as well as the right to maintain, on a regular basis, a personal relationship and direct contact with both parents;
C. whereas protective masks make it more difficult for mothers to breathe and cause additional stress during the birth;
1. Notes that closest possible contact with the mother after birth is important for a child’s well-being;
2. Takes the view that a protective mask is a barrier to such close contact;
3. Is concerned that fathers are being excluded from one of life’s most precious moments solely on account of rules to curb the COVID-19 pandemic;
4. Calls on the Member States to dispense with rules imposing social distancing between parents and their newborn baby during or directly after the birth, provided that there is no clear indication that the benefits to the child of such measures would outweigh the negative effects.