AZE.US
Social media platforms in Azerbaijan have recently seen a surge in advertisements inviting women to become surrogate mothers abroad. The offers promise to “handle everything,” with advance payments and total compensation reportedly reaching $23,000.
In one recorded phone conversation, a woman participating in such a program claimed that most of the money is paid in monthly installments, while approximately $16,000–$17,000 is withheld until after childbirth and the transfer of the baby to the intended parents. She stated that she had already given birth once under the arrangement and is currently pregnant again.
Legal experts warn that these offers may carry significant risks.
Under Azerbaijan’s Criminal Code, if a citizen is deceived, transported abroad, and exploited as a surrogate, such actions may fall under Article 144-1 – human trafficking. The law explicitly defines recruitment, deception, and exploitation of a person as criminal offenses.
Surrogacy itself is prohibited in Azerbaijan. However, when the procedure takes place in another country, the laws of that jurisdiction apply. For example, Georgia allows surrogacy for foreign nationals under specific legal frameworks. Still, experts caution that disputes between parties, contract violations, and medical or ethical complications remain real risks even where the practice is legal.
Lawyers stress that any agreements between intended parents and a surrogate mother must be formally documented and strictly compliant with the laws of the country where the procedure is carried out. Informal or poorly structured arrangements can lead to fraud, financial losses, and complex cross-border legal battles.
Authorities also emphasize that participation in illegal recruitment schemes can expose individuals to criminal liability. While the financial incentive may appear attractive, there is no guarantee that participants will not become victims of trafficking or exploitation.
The issue raises broader questions about regulation, oversight, and the vulnerability of women targeted through online recruitment campaigns.