2025-04-23

BRUSSELS - This book features donor families of today. What is their story? How did they choose a donor? With what words do they talk about this at the kitchen table? And what reactions do they get from those around them? Children also have their say in this book. What are their needs, questions or wishes regarding their genesis?

Journalist Elke Lahousse and documentary filmmaker Lieven Bulckens themselves have a six-year-old son who came about with the help of a sperm donor. Family, friends and colleagues were always aware of this. This openness is the common thread in conversations they have with other parents.

A number of well-known experts and researchers shed light on the most important themes in these families.

De donor en wij is also a picture book. In a country where donor conception is still anonymous, the makers want to show these families. Perhaps this way, the subject will find its way out of the taboo a little faster.

Photo: © Lieven Bulckens

Lieven Bulckens

Lieven Bulckens is a Belgian photographer and documentary maker.
Lieven Bulckens

Elke Lahousse

Elke Lahousse is a Belgian journalist and author.
Elke Lahousse