TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The Executive Yuan (行政院), Taiwan's cabinet, passed a draft amendment to the Assisted Reproduction Act (人工生殖法) Thursday (Dec. 11), aiming to broaden access to reproductive technologies. The proposal includes unmarried women over 18 and same-sex female couples, ensuring that children born through these methods retain their legitimate status. The amendment temporarily separates the issue of surrogate mothers due to ongoing societal debates.
Health and Welfare Minister Shih Chung-liang (石崇良) addressed the media, emphasizing the complexities surrounding surrogate motherhood. He stated that surrogacy involved third-party health rights, including pregnancy risks, maternal and child health considerations, and social ethics. Shih noted the lack of social consensus and pledged to continue dialogues to build agreement on the matter. The government will pursue further public consultations.
The draft specifies that eligible users of artificial reproductive technology must reside in Taiwan and include unmarried women and married same-sex female partners. Requirements include the ability to carry a pregnancy and deliver, possession of healthy reproductive cells, and a health check confirming suitability for women over 45. The eligibility criteria aim to ensure safe and responsible use of reproductive technologies.
The proposal introduces an interest evaluation system, genetic recognition rights, and adjustments to legal status to safeguard the interests of children born through artificial reproduction. The amendment mandates evaluations by professional agencies before undergoing procedures to ensure the best outcomes for the children involved. These protections prioritize child welfare and rights throughout the reproductive process.