Regulation of Surrogacy in the Netherlands: Focus on Rijswijk
For residents of Rijswijk, the regulation of surrogacy in the Netherlands provides a structured legal framework that protects the interests of the child, the surrogate mother, and the intended parents. This area of family law permits altruistic surrogacy but prohibits commercial practices. In Rijswijk, as part of Dutch legislation, this ensures an ethical and safe approach, supported by local authorities such as the Rechtbank Rijswijk and protocols from the Ministry of Justice and Security.
Definition and Explanation of Surrogacy Regulation in Rijswijk
Surrogacy involves a woman (the surrogate mother) carrying and giving birth to a child for intended parents, who then recognize the child as their own. The regulation prevents exploitation and ensures clear parentage. In the Netherlands—and thus for residents of Rijswijk—surrogacy is permitted but strictly controlled to prioritize children's rights. There is a distinction between traditional surrogacy (using the intended father's sperm) and gestational surrogacy (via IVF with an embryo from the intended parents). Key requirements include voluntariness and reimbursement of expenses only, without payment for the pregnancy itself.
The process is multidisciplinary, involving medical, psychological, and legal assessments. This prevents commercialization, as seen in some foreign markets. For Rijswijk residents, it is crucial to understand that without proper procedures, the child may legally remain with the surrogate mother, leading to emotional and legal issues. Local support is available through Het Juridisch Loket Rijswijk for tailored advice.
Legal Basis
The surrogacy regulation is grounded in Dutch family law, particularly Book 1 of the Dutch Civil Code (DCC). Relevant provisions include:
- Article 1:150 DCC: Establishes parentage at birth; the child initially belongs to the surrogate mother and her partner, unless otherwise determined.
- Article 1:151 DCC: Allows recognition by intended parents after birth, with a prior declaration of intent.
- Article 1:199 DCC: Governs adoption as a possible route.
The Donor Information Artificial Insemination Act (Wdkb) applies to IVF. Commercial surrogacy is prohibited under Article 151(2) DCC, with penalties up to two years' imprisonment. In 2019, a protocol for altruistic surrogacy was introduced, leading to a legislative proposal in 2023. This protocol from the Ministry of Justice and Security requires a notarial deed and screening. For procedures in Rijswijk, contact the Rechtbank Rijswijk.
European guidelines, such as the European Convention on the Rights of the Child, emphasize the child's best interests. The Netherlands adopts a restrictive policy, unlike more liberal countries such as the US.
Practical Examples for Rijswijk
Consider a lesbian couple from Rijswijk opting for gestational surrogacy. They find an altruistic surrogate through a clinic. First, a notarial declaration of intent is prepared, followed by medical and psychological evaluations. After birth, the intended mothers recognize the child, and the Rechtbank Rijswijk establishes parentage. Skipping steps risks uncertainty for the child or placement with the surrogate.
A heterosexual couple from Rijswijk facing fertility issues chooses traditional surrogacy within the family. The intended father recognizes the child prenatally, but the surrogate has temporary custody. After six weeks, the Rechtbank Rijswijk can transfer parentage. This illustrates how the regulation protects bonds and provides legal certainty, with local access via the Municipality of Rijswijk for additional advice.
Rights and Obligations
The regulation of surrogacy sets out rights and obligations for those involved in Rijswijk:
Rights of the Surrogate Mother
- Right to informed consent and withdrawal until birth.
- Reimbursement of medical and travel expenses, without payment for carrying the child.
- Protection against pressure; mandatory psychological support.
Obligations of the Surrogate Mother
- Follow-up medical care and avoid smoking/alcohol during pregnancy.
- Cooperate with screening by a doctor and psychologist.
- No commercial motives; otherwise punishable.
Rights of the Intended Parents
- Recognition of the child as their biological or legal child.
- Access to IVF at licensed clinics.
- Custody of the child upon completion.
Obligations of the Intended Parents
- Financial coverage of the surrogate's expenses.
- Participation in counseling to understand relational bonds.
- Application for parentage establishment at the Rechtbank Rijswijk within six weeks of birth.
The child has the right to identity and donor information from age 16, per the Wdkb. In Rijswijk, Het Juridisch Loket Rijswijk offers free support.
Comparison of Surrogacy in the Netherlands and Abroad
To clarify the Dutch surrogacy regulation—with relevance for Rijswijk—the following comparison table:
| Country | Commercial Allowed? | Altruistic Regulated? | Key Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Netherlands | No (prohibited) | Yes, with protocol | Notarial declaration of intent |
| United States (e.g., California) | Yes | Yes | Contract with lawyer |
| United Kingdom | No | Yes, limited | Parental Order after 6 months |
| Ukraine | Yes (for hetero couples) | No | Medical contract |
Veelgestelde vragen
Wat is mijn retourrecht?
Bij online aankopen heb je 14 dagen retourrecht zonder opgaaf van reden, tenzij de wettelijke uitzonderingen gelden.
Hoe lang geldt de wettelijke garantie?
Goederen moeten minimaal 2 jaar meewerken. Defecten die binnen 6 maanden ontstaan worden verondersteld al aanwezig te zijn.
Kan ik rente eisen over schulden?
Ja, je kunt wettelijke rente eisen (momenteel ongeveer 8% per jaar) over het openstaande bedrag.
Wat kan ik doen tegen oneerlijke handelspraktijken?
Je kunt klacht indienen bij de consumentenbond, de overheid of naar de rechter gaan.
Wat is een kredietovereenkomst?
Een kredietovereenkomst regelt hoe je geld leent, wat de rente is, en hoe je dit terugbetaalt.