Nikhil Agrawal
Co-Founder, Masta Kala
Surrogacy is a complex but deeply personal matter that touches on the essence of family bonds and the pursuit of happiness. As someone raised in a joint family, I have experienced firsthand the profound benefits of close-knit connections and the unwavering support they provide. The joy that stems from being part of such a family is truly irreplaceable. However, not everyone is fortunate enough to experience this kind of familial joy. Circumstances vary, and there are individuals and couples who long for the companionship and love that a family provides but are unable to conceive naturally. In such cases, I believe that there’s no harm in turning to surrogacy as a means to fulfil their desire for parenthood. Surrogacy, when approached with empathy and respect for all parties involved, surrogacy can offer a beautiful solution for those struggling with infertility or other medical challenges. It’s heart-warming to think that a surrogate mother can play a role in bringing so much happiness to someone else’s life. This act of selflessness is a testament to the enduring power of human kindness.
Dilnawaz Sheikh
Co-Founder, Project Co-Lead of Political Literacy for Nepal
Surrogacy is a complicated and contentious subject that poses numerous moral, legal and psychological issues. Usually, for people or couples who are unable to conceive or have a child themselves, surrogacy helps them become parents. Surrogacy can provide individuals or couples who are unable to have biological children with enormous satisfaction and fulfilment. It provides a chance for parenthood and has the potential to forge close relationships between the intended parents and the surrogate, leading to amazing outcomes for everyone involved. In addition, surrogacy gives same-sex couples or single people a way to have children, fostering inclusivity.
However, there are legitimate worries about exploitation, commodification, and the possibility of emotional and psychological trauma for both the surrogate and the child. Especially in nations with fewer regulations, the commercialisation of surrogacy can result in vulnerable women being forced or financially compelled to become surrogates. Important questions about the surrogate’s autonomy, well-being, and the possibility of abusing her reproductive powers are raised by this. In addition, it is important to carefully evaluate both the child’s and the surrogate’s emotional and psychological effects. The process could get complicated if the surrogate experiences sadness or develops an emotional bond with the child. The child might also struggle with issues of identification and bonding with their gestational and biological parents, which could be detrimental to their emotional health.
It is crucial to establish comprehensive legal frameworks and ethical rules that put the welfare and autonomy of all individuals involved first to allay these worries. To safeguard surrogates’ rights, secure their informed consent, and stop exploitative practises, more laws and oversight are required. In addition, supplying surrogates with emotional and psychological support throughout the procedure might reduce potential harm and promote good relationships.
In conclusion, surrogacy is a complicated subject that requires thorough examination of its moral, societal and psychological ramifications. While it can give infertile people a road to parenting, serious issues with exploitation and emotional health must be addressed through thorough legislation and support networks. In the end, creating a fair and ethical surrogacy practise requires striking a balance between the desire for motherhood and the safety of all parties.
Aarya Shrestha
Engineer and Model
I view surrogacy as a gift. A gift for those individuals who cannot have their own son or daughter due to personal or medical reasons. Even though it is a long process, I feel it is worth waiting for. The world is evolving, and I feel we should move forward with new inventions. It is a good thing for women and even LGBTQ couples who cannot have children. Everything needs to be taken in the right manner.
But as there is a bad side to everything, surrogacy has a bad side too. People can make surrogacy a business. It can lead to human trafficking. Young girls and teens can be lured or kidnapped for the sake of money. They can be brainwashed into being surrogates.
Surrogacy can also lead to unhealthy habits. Females can use it as a source of income, which can be unhealthy for them. There should be strict rules and regulations for surrogacy. Knowledge about surrogacy should be given to children too. It should be added to their syllabus of health studies too. I believe that if taken in the right manner, it can definien forward.
Anil Shah
Chairperson
Lead Nepal Inc.
Surrogacy is a complex and multifaceted issue that elicits diverse perspectives from different individuals and societies. I feel it’s a highly charged and emotional issue that is extremely sensitive and very personal. Proponents of surrogacy argue that it can offer a solution to individuals and couples facing infertility or medical complications, allowing them to experience the joys of parenthood. The opportunity to have biological children through surrogacy also gives same-sex couples and single people more family options.
On the other hand, surrogacy opponents bring up several moral issues. They draw attention to the potential for surrogate mothers to be exploited, particularly in nations with laxer laws where women from economically disadvantaged backgrounds may be susceptible to coercion or unfair compensation. Questions about the commodification of women’s bodies and the possibility of treating babies as products for sale are also prevalent in this discourse. Moreover, there are moral and legal complexities surrounding the rights and responsibilities of the parties involved, including intended parents, surrogate mothers, and the children born through surrogacy.
Divergent laws and cultural norms worldwide further complicate the matter, leading to varying practises and controversies in different regions. To address these concerns, some advocate for more comprehensive and standardised regulations to protect the rights of all involved parties. Proper legal frameworks can ensure that surrogacy is carried out ethically, safeguarding the well-being of surrogate mothers, the intended parents, and the children born from surrogacy.
Surrogacy is multifaceted, encompassing a range of ethical, legal, and cultural considerations. As surrogacy practises continue to evolve, an open dialogue is essential to find balance that respects the autonomy and well-being of all individuals involved while safeguarding against potential abuses, never losing sight of the fact that this is an extremely sensitive and personal issue.
