Georgia's Surrogacy Boom: The Hidden Costs of a Post-Invasion Baby Trade

Georgia has become a hub for surrogate pregnancies after Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, as intended parents seek alternatives to Ukraine's disrupted surrogacy industry. DW spoke with parents and surrogates about the hidden costs of this booming business.

Ukraine was previously a major destination for surrogacy, but the war forced many clinics to close or relocate, pushing demand to Georgia. The country's relatively lax regulations and lower costs have attracted international clients, but questions remain about the ethical and legal implications.

The surge in surrogacy has raised concerns about the exploitation of surrogates, the lack of legal protections, and the potential for trafficking. As the industry continues to grow, calls for better regulation and oversight are increasing, with global implications for reproductive rights and cross-border surrogacy.