Beyond the nuclear family: a feminist critique of assisted reproductive technology policy in Lithuania

Abstract

This master's thesis examines the policy landscape surrounding Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ARTs) in the Republic of Lithuania using Feminist Critical Policy Analysis (FCPA). Drawing on feminist theory, the study investigates how Lithuanian institutional discourse reinforces traditional nuclear family structures, discriminating against alternative ways of family-making. The study highlights how the intersection of traditional, pronatalist, patriarchal, heteronormative, and biologically essentialist values within the Lithuanian context affects access to reproductive technologies based on marital status and sexuality. It also highlights the role of the Roman Catholic Church in framing specific ARTs negatively and lobbying for restrictive legislation. Ultimately, the thesis devalues the transformative and disruptive potential of ARTs, illustrating how the ART policy is adapted to accommodate rather than challenge the system of power perpetuating both reproductive injustice and traditional family structures based on heteronormativity, gender inequality, and the subordination of women to men.