In Europe, commercial surrogacy is mostly banned and viewed as a form of body commodification akin to organ trafficking. Only a handful of countries allow highly regulated altruistic surrogacy, limiting reimbursement to just expenses and prohibiting additional compensation. This restriction results in limited participation, despite the soaring demand for surrogacy driven by delayed childbearing, growing medical challenges, and the increasing number of LGBTQ+ families. According to Global Market Insights, the surrogacy market, valued at $14 billion in 2022, is expected to reach $129 billion by 2032.
Currently, only a few European countries, such as Ukraine and Greece, allow commercial surrogacy, operating within a legal gray area with minimal oversight. This has created an unregulated industry filled with issues like trafficking women, falsified documents, and sham embryo transfers.
Before Ukraine’s 2022 invasion, it was a global surrogacy hub with an estimated 2,000-2,500 surrogacy contracts annually. Despite the conflict, the industry persists, with some pregnant women still in war-torn Ukraine. Controversially, Ukrainian surrogates now travel to places like Greece and Northern Cyprus to finish pregnancies, leaving their families behind. Advocates argue that surrogates should not have to relocate to other countries for pregnancy, emphasizing the need for proper support networks during this vulnerable time.
The surrogacy industry has faced scandals and shifting laws in various countries, leaving intended parents scrambling to relocate embryos to more stable regions with established surrogacy frameworks. The United States remains a top destination due to its robust legal framework and advanced medical care, but it is also the most expensive option.
Canada has traditionally been a more affordable surrogacy destination, although commercial surrogacy is banned. This has led to increased demand and longer wait times, prompting parents to explore surrogacy options in Latin America where costs are lower.
Mexico, particularly Mexico City, has become a popular choice for intended parents due to its progressive surrogacy laws and lower costs. The surrogacy boom in the Americas is overshadowing Europe’s restrictive policies, with advocates arguing that banning commercial surrogacy limits access to services and increases the exploitation of women.
Overall, the surrogacy landscape is evolving rapidly, with intended parents seeking options in countries with clear regulations and established practices. The need for transparent and ethical surrogacy practices is crucial to protect both the rights of surrogates and intended parents.
