Decision from the UK to affect sperm and egg donors

Current laws stipulated that children born through sperm and egg donation could learn the identities of their biological parents upon request after turning 18.

However, the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority has requested a change in the law due to the increase in individuals seeking their parents through unofficial channels, driven by the easy accessibility of DNA tests, the widespread use of genetic matching services, and information sharing on social media.

In her statement on the matter, Authority Chair Julia Chain said, “We need a balance between the law and what is happening in reality.”

PARLIAMENTARY APPROVAL REQUIRED

For the practice, which has been in effect for 33 years, to change, it must pass through parliamentary approval.

The original version of the law provided full anonymity to donors. With the amendment made in 2005, individuals born through egg and sperm donation were granted the right to learn the identity of their biological parents after the age of 18.

Although this change caused a temporary decline in donations at the time, these figures later reached levels even higher than before.

According to the new regulation, those who donated before 2005 will remain completely anonymous, while donors after 2005 will continue to remain anonymous until the child reaches the age of 18. The regulation will only apply to new donors.

News Source: 12punto