Former Irish President Mary McAleese has ignited controversy with her view that baptizing infants shortly after birth violates their human rights because they are unable to give consent. This stance has reportedly led to significant criticism.

McAleese's assertion, detailed in her recent work, posits that the practice of infant baptism is fundamentally at odds with the principle of consent, as newborns are too young to agree to the sacrament. The Daily Mail reported that her controversial opinion has provoked an angry reaction.