Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
San Salvador (Agenzia Fides) – The Bishops' Conference of El Salvador is concerned that the authorities may ratify the "Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women” (CEDAW), as it provides, among other things, the legalization of abortion.
"The Bishops of El Salvador have sent a letter to President Mauricio Funes and the Legislative Assembly, requesting that the CEDAW not be ratified by the Members, as it does not only threaten the newly conceived fetus, but it could also bring serious consequences to the dignity of women," said Archbishop José Luis Escobar Alas of San Salvador, in the traditional press conference on Sunday.
Bishop Escobar Alas said that "the bishops emphasize the commitment of the Catholic Church to make every form of discrimination against women disappear worldwide, however, through proper channels and not going against the principles of family and society."
"In El Salvador, we consider the family as the primary basis of society and today, more than ever, we feel the need to strengthen youth education in values, to ensure the present and the future of our country," added the Archbishop San Salvador, who spoke on behalf of all the bishops of the nation. The ratification of CEDAW will be being discussed in the coming days at the Commission for Children and Family in the legislature. (CE) (Agenzia Fides 10/5/2010)
