In a statement published on Monday 20 November, World Children’s Day, the Peruvian Episcopal Conference (CEP) expressed its deep appreciation to the Congress of the Republic for the approval of Law 31935, which consolidates the rights of the unborn child, during the process of gestation and before birth.

Commitment to the defence of life

“This legislative decision reinforces our commitment to the defence of life from the moment of conception and consolidates the recognition of human dignity as the supreme principle. Children from conception are the greatest treasure in the world, the future of the Peruvian family”. This was emphasised by Monsignor Miguel Cabrejos Vidarte, OFM, President of the Peruvian Episcopate, in the document.

Together with Pope Francis

The CEP’s pronouncement adds a quote from Pope Francis in March 2015:

“Children remind us that we are always children. And that always brings us back to the fact that we did not give life to ourselves, but that we have received it”.

An important step towards the construction of society

“The enactment of this law is an important step towards building a society that respects and defends human life and overcomes a culture of death. We must continue to work to guarantee that children come into a world that welcomes them with a welcoming love, an expression of the beautiful gift of life and the hope of humanity”, says the text signed by the Metropolitan Archbishop of Trujillo.

Protecting the dignity of all children

“We are all challenged to renew our commitment, especially families, to protect the dignity of all children and to offer them the opportunity to grow up in a healthy environment”, said Archbishop Cabrejos. He encouraged all the faithful and people of good will to work together to build a society that respects and defends the fundamental rights of all.