Fertility clinic errors reported in northern Cyprus
Two British women have reported that children born through IVF treatment at a clinic in northern Cyprus did not share the biological father they had selected from a Danish sperm bank. DNA testing revealed that the children were not genetically related to the chosen donor or to each other. A BBC investigation identified seven additional cases of families receiving incorrect genetic material at clinics in this region. This incident marks the second major fertility-related issue involving British nationals in the area within a year. Last year, a same-sex couple faced legal difficulties after a surrogacy procedure, leaving them unable to obtain recognized birth certificates in the Republic of Cyprus. The fertility industry in northern Cyprus has expanded, attracting international clients due to lower costs and fewer regulatory restrictions. Critics and reports suggest that the lack of legal oversight and institutional accountability contributes to these incidents. Clinics reportedly offer all-inclusive packages that are often less expensive than those found in internationally recognized jurisdictions.