Surrogacy in Egypt: A Conflict Between Religious Beliefs and Advancements in Reproductive Technology

ypt, a majority Muslim country, has adopted a conservative stance on modern assisted reproductive technologies (ART). Surrogacy, in particular, faces significant opposition from both religious and legal institutions, including Al-Azhar University. Opponents believe that surrogacy is incompatible with Islamic law (Sharia). They worry about problems like confusion over family lineage and inheritance issues.

Legally, Egypt has no laws that support or regulate surrogacy, making the practice effectively banned.

In this article, we will look at the religious and legal reasons why both commercial and altruistic surrogacy are not allowed in Egypt, as well as the factors that keep the country from accepting surrogacy treatments despite significant medical advancements in the field.

Is Surrogacy Legal in Egypt?

Surrogacy is currently illegal in Egypt. However, there is no specific law that punishes those who use it. The main reason for this ban is religious beliefs rather than civil laws.

Why Do Egyptian Religious Scholars Oppose Surrogacy?

Muslim scholarly authorities in Egypt consider surrogacy incompatible with religious laws. Their main concerns include:

•Lineage confusion: As a woman other than the genetic mother carries and gives birth to the baby, it creates confusion about the child's family history;

•Sacred role of mother in Egypt: In Egyptian culture, the role of the birth mother is considered very sacred. They feel surrogacy disrespects this important role;

•Similarity to forbidden sexual intercourse: Some scholars even compare surrogacy to a form of adultery that is forbidden in Islam, even though there is no sexual contact involved.



What is the Opinion of Egyptian People about Surrogacy?

Like many other countries, public opinion on surrogacy in Egypt is mixed. While it is officially banned, many Egyptian couples support surrogacy and even secretly seek out this method of infertility treatment by traveling to neighboring countries such as Jordan, Lebanon, or Iran.

What is the Traditional View on Fertility in Egypt?

There is significant cultural and traditional pressure on Egyptian couples to have children. Infertility—especially when it is female infertility—often leads to social judgment and exclusion. As a result, many couples are eager to try any method they can to get pregnant, even if it is not legal.



What are the Risks Associated with Illegal Surrogacy in Egypt for the Surrogate Children?

Since surrogacy is not legal in Egypt, people who pursue it may face big risks. If there is any disagreement between the intended parents and the surrogate mother, there will be no legal system to resolve it. Sometimes, surrogate mothers develop emotional attachment to the baby and may refuse to hand over the child after birth, causing additional trouble.

Will Surrogacy Ever Be Legal in Egypt?

Religious opposition in Egypt is currently very strong and influential, making the prospect of surrogacy in the country seem unlikely. However, advancements in medical science, both globally and within Egypt, could potentially lead to significant changes in both public and legal attitudes.

Conclusion

Surrogacy is not permitted in Egypt, primarily due to strong religious opposition. Most Islamic scholars argue that surrogacy resembles illicit sexual intercourse and disrupts clear lineage. However, there is no specific law or penalty for violators of surrogacy law in Egypt.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

•Is surrogacy allowed in Egypt?

No, surrogacy is banned in Egypt. Fertility clinics are not allowed to offer the practice.

•What is the religious view of surrogacy in Egypt?

Most Egyptian scholars believe surrogacy is somehow similar to adultery and disrupts lineage, even if no physical contact is involved.

•What do Egyptian couples do to use surrogacy?

Many Egyptians travel to countries like Jordan, Lebanon, and Iran, where surrogacy is permitted and more accessible.