Should we introduce a license to become a parent?

The proposal to require a license to become a parent introduces a provocative challenge to long-held assumptions about personal freedom, family, and the role of government. Unlike professions such as driving, teaching, or practicing medicine—which require demonstrated competence—parenthood typically requires no qualifications, despite its lifelong impact on another human being. This idea raises questions about rights, responsibilities, and societal obligations. To understand this debate, it’s important to grasp the concept of parenting licenses. This refers to a hypothetical system where individuals would need to meet certain criteria—such as financial stability, psychological health, or completion of parenting education—before being allowed to raise a child. The idea is inspired by efforts to protect child welfare and reduce abuse or neglect, and it draws parallels to licensing systems meant to protect public safety. This topic intersects with ethics, human rights, and social justice. Advocates often argue that parenting is too important to be left entirely unregulated, especially in cases where children may be born into unsafe or unprepared environments. They point to existing state involvement in child protection services as a precedent. On the other hand, introducing a licensing system would raise complex issues of enforcement, bias, discrimination, reproductive autonomy, and inequality.