A shortage of surrogate mothers in Britain is forcing couples abroad to as far as Asia in pursuit of a family. Evidence shows that this is a trend which is increasing amongst our society.
Gujarat in India, with a population of 150,000, is producing more surrogate babies than any other country worldwide; these figures are expected to rise by 40% this year.
The development of ‘reproductive tourism’ in Asia is due to the fact it costs substantially less, and involves no litigation.
Indian women receive the equivalent of ten years salary, but that is less than what a surrogate mother in America or Europe would receive.
The services offered by these women don’t differ, so neither should the rewards. Foreign women are not naïve, but simply susceptible to a dangerous cycle of playing God. Living in less economically developed countries, lacking opportunities to flourish in high flying careers, these women are being exploited as baby makers.
The risk of confusing our children of the future, as well as the manipulation of women is frightening. This and the amalgamation of classes and cultures is causing great dispute. When does this trend stop and should it be regulated?
Obviously I agree that it should be regulated for the sake of the women being exploited but the trickiest obstacle I believe would come when getting Western official bodies as well as prospective parents to recognize the process officially. By regulating it they would bestow upon themselves the very bureaucracy they so illegally avoid in economically deprived areas.
ReplyDeleteWould you elaborate on what you mean by 'confusing our children of the future' ?