In the age of social media, where every moment is documented and shared with the world, it’s no surprise that celebrities and influencers are constantly seeking new experiences to captivate their audiences. One trend that has been quietly gaining momentum in recent years is birth tourism, where individuals travel to foreign countries to give birth, often for the purpose of obtaining citizenship for their child. Lakshay and Veronika, popularly known as ‘the arranged souls’ recently joined the club by moving to Los Angeles, where they delivered a healthy baby boy. While the concept is not new, the rise of globalisation, improved travel infrastructure, and the pursuit of better opportunities have made it a significant and contentious issue.
The Appeal of Birth Tourism
Birth tourism is not a new concept. For decades, people have been travelling to countries like the United States and Canada to give birth, thus securing citizenship for their children. However, what’s different today is the visibility and influence of celebrities and social media influencers who have turned it into a trend. Prior to this, birth tourism was often practised by the rich. Isha Ambani, daughter of the business tycoon Mukesh Ambani also delivered her twins in the US.
Why do people opt for birth tourism?
International Opportunities
One of the primary motivations behind birth tourism is the desire to provide children with expanded opportunities. By obtaining citizenship in another country, these children gain access to better education, healthcare, and career prospects.
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Status and Prestige
For celebrities and influencers, the act of giving birth in a foreign country can also be seen as a status symbol. It adds an element of prestige to their child’s identity and often leads to increased media attention and a larger social media following.
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Immigration Benefits
Some parents turn to birth tourism as a pathway to immigration. Having a child born in a foreign country can provide a legal basis for the parents to obtain residency or citizenship in that country in the future.
The Celebrity Influence
Celebrities and influencers wield significant power and influence over their followers. When they engage in birth tourism, they inadvertently glamorise the practice and make it seem like an attractive option for their fans. This can create a domino effect, where more people consider birth tourism as a viable choice. In the recent time Rubina Dilak was seen enjoying an extended babymoon in the US. There have been speculations that she too might opt to deliver in the States, grabbing many eyeballs in the process.
Concerns and Controversies
While birth tourism may offer certain advantages, it is not without its controversies. Critics argue that it can be a form of exploitation of a country’s citizenship laws and healthcare system. Some governments have started cracking down on birth tourism by imposing stricter regulations and penalties for those who engage in it.
Ethical Dilemmas
Critics argue that birth tourism can raise ethical questions, such as whether it’s fair for individuals to exploit legal loopholes for personal gain at the expense of a host country’s resources.
The strain on Healthcare
The influx of birth tourists can strain a country’s healthcare system, as pregnant women often require medical care during their stay, putting additional pressure on local hospitals.
Legal Repercussions
In response to the rise in birth tourism, some countries are considering stricter measures to deter this practice, which may result in legal consequences for those who participate.
The rise of birth tourism among celebrities and influencers highlights the changing landscape of how individuals perceive citizenship and opportunities for their children. While it offers certain benefits, it also raises ethical concerns and can put strain on host countries. As the practice continues to gain attention, it is crucial to strike a balance between personal aspirations and societal responsibilities, all while considering the long-term consequences for the children born through this method and the countries involved.
