Islamic Legal Perspectives on Surrogacy: A Study of Fatwa Issuances
Keywords:
Islamic bioethics, Surrogacy Fatwa, ShariaAbstract
This study explores the Islamic legal perspectives on surrogacy by analyzing fatwas (religious rulings) issued by UAE fatwa councils and religious authorities. Surrogacy presents unique ethical and legal challenges in the context of Islamic law, particularly concerning lineage preservation, marital fidelity, and parental roles. Through qualitative thematic analysis of fatwas from official UAE sources, this research identifies predominant themes, including the emphasis on nasab (lineage), the sanctity of marriage, and ethical concerns regarding the potential commodification of surrogacy. The findings indicate that most UAE fatwas on surrogacy adopt a prohibitive stance, with limited exceptions allowing gestational surrogacy under stringent conditions. This study contributes to the discourse on Islamic bioethics by highlighting how UAE Islamic authorities address modern reproductive technologies, balancing traditional Sharia principles with contemporary ethical considerations.
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