Name nope: Baby naming laws from around the globe
In many countries, kids are protected from the outlandish names their parents choose, but in others (hello USA) it’s pretty much free rein and you may literally (and regrettably) run into a child called “Adolf Hitler” – despite the authorities’ best efforts.
Here’s the skinny on how the world names – and doesn’t name – their littlies.
France
France recently disallowed the names Nutella and Babar. The first, because it was the name of a spread and the second because it was the name of an elephant. Both were refused because they were not in the best interests of the child.
Since 1993 French parents have been free to name their kids whatever they like, unless the chosen name is contrary to the interests of the child. Then the court steps in and orders a new name for said bub.
