The People's Majlis has passed the Organ Transplant Bill, establishing a legal framework for organ transplant services in the Maldives.

The bill, which was submitted to parliament on behalf of the Government in October last year by Member of Parliament for Kendhikulhudhoo Ibrahim Didi, was approved unanimously by all 68 members who participated in the sitting. The legislation will come into effect once ratified by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu.

The bill seeks to establish a regulated system for organ transplantation aimed at ensuring transplant services in the Maldives are accessible, safe and carried out according to established medical and ethical standards. It also outlines the responsibilities and rights of both donors and recipients under the proposed legal framework.

Under the legislation, organ donations can only be made voluntarily by living donors who are above the age of 18 and of sound mind. The bill also prohibits organ donations from individuals in state custody or serving prison sentences. In addition, the legislation criminalises the buying and selling of organs and assisting in organ transplantation without the donor’s consent, with penalties including fines and imprisonment.

The law also provides for the establishment of a nine-member Organ Transplant Council responsible for issuing and overseeing permits for transplant services, alongside a five-member Organ Transplant Authorisation Committee tasked with approving transplant procedures. Authorities stated that the legislation is expected to support the development of formal organ transplant services within the Maldives and reduce the need for patients to seek such treatment abroad.