A Comparative Cultural-Religious Belief for Reproductive Health and Surrogacy in the Arab-Asian Countries

Sushmita Das

Sharia Anjum

 

Abstract: Globally, reproductive health is a primary concern, leading the World Health Organisation to issue directives to its member countries. In Arab-Asian Islamic countries, reproductive rights—including assisted reproductive technology (ART), surrogacy, in vitro fertilisation (IVF), abortion, and family planning—are shaped by diverse cultural, religious, and legal beliefs. This article examines fatwas (juristic opinions) issued by religious authorities, which have led to diverse attitudes towards reproductive health rights. This article examines the interplay between religious, cultural, political, social, legal, and moral beliefs by analysing the geographical contextualisation of reproductive health rights in these countries. Analysing the intersection of reproductive rights with family lineage, social norms, and inheritance, this article offers a nuanced understanding of the complexities of reproductive health within the Arab-Asian Islamic tradition. The findings contribute to the development of culturally sensitive and context-specific policies that balance reproductive health rights with local beliefs and values.