Feb 19 β€’ 07:30 UTC πŸ‡²πŸ‡½ Mexico El Financiero (ES)

When I Decided to Be a Surrogate

The article discusses the controversy surrounding surrogacy in Mexico, highlighting its classification as a form of violence against women, as stated by a UN special rapporteur.

The article recounts remarks made during an international meeting aimed at eradicating violence against women, where the UN Special Rapporteur emphasized Mexico's alarming levels of violence against women and cited surrogacy as a form of economic coercion against women’s reproductive capacities. This has prompted civil organizations to petition the government to ban surrogacy in Mexico, framing it as part of the broader issue of violence against women, which many believe is unsustainable in the country. However, the author expresses discomfort at including surrogacy in this context, citing personal experiences.

The author reflects on the journey of close friends who, as a gay couple, sought to become biological parents through surrogacy nearly five years ago. They highlight the complexities of the legal and financial uncertainties surrounding surrogacy in Mexico, which could hinder such aspirations for families looking to expand through this method. The narrative suggests that while violence against women is a critical issue that requires attention, equating it with surrogacy may overlook the nuanced experiences of those who choose this path and may disregard the agency and consent involved.

In doing so, the article sparks a wider conversation about the legal and ethical considerations of surrogacy, particularly within the Mexican context. It emphasizes the need for dialogue that respects the autonomy of individuals while addressing the systemic issues of violence and coercion that exist within society. The push for a ban on surrogacy is framed as a proactive measure against exploitation, but the author questions whether this solution might inadvertently strip away options for families who rely on this assistance to create their families.

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