Maldives introduces bill to regulate human organ transplants
New legislation seeks to create a national framework ensuring ethical, safe, and sustainable organ transplant services in Maldives
MALE, Maldives (MNTV) — The Maldivian government has introduced a landmark bill to regulate human organ transplantation, aiming to establish ethical standards, ensure patient safety, and prevent illegal trade in organs.
The Human Organ Transplantation Bill, submitted to Parliament by Member of Parliament Ibrahim Didi on behalf of the government, outlines a national legal framework for providing organ and tissue transplant services in a safe, accessible, and sustainable manner.
If enacted, the law would be the first comprehensive regulation governing organ transplants in the island nation, where patients often travel abroad for such procedures due to limited domestic facilities.
The bill allows organ donation only from living donors who are 18 years or older and mentally competent to provide informed consent. It strictly prohibits donations from individuals under state custody or serving prison sentences, reinforcing protections against coercion and exploitation.
Once passed, the law will establish a nine-member Organ Transplant Council, tasked with issuing and revoking permits for transplant centers, monitoring compliance, and taking disciplinary action against violators. A separate five-member Authorisation Committee will review and approve individual transplant cases.
The legislation also criminalizes non-consensual organ removal, commercial sale or purchase of organs, and any medical participation in such practices. Violators, including healthcare professionals, will face fines and imprisonment.
According to the draft, the framework is designed to align with World Health Organization (WHO) ethical standards, ensuring transparency in donor consent, medical safety, and post-surgical monitoring.
Health officials say the proposed law reflects the Maldives’ broader push to expand its healthcare infrastructure and reduce reliance on foreign medical services. By formalizing transplant oversight, the government aims to build public trust and protect vulnerable individuals from organ trafficking — an issue of growing regional concern in South and Southeast Asia.
Parliamentary debate on the bill is expected to begin later this month, with lawmakers calling it a crucial step toward bringing the Maldives in line with international bioethics and medical governance norms.
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