Welsh Muslim, Jewish leaders object to 'presumed consent' organ donation

November 05, 2012

Jewish and Muslim religious leaders in Wales have voiced concern about a proposal to list all residents as organ donors unless they specifically request otherwise.

The “presumed donor” approach would greatly increase the number of organs available for transplants, government officials say. Religious leaders have countered that any donations should be arranged freely and consciously. Earlier this year, Archbishop George Stack of Cardiff objected to the presumed-consent proposal, saying: “Our bodies are not an asset of the state.”

Muslim leaders have introduced another argument into the debate, questioning the definition of “brain death.” In most cases, vital organs can be transplanted only from patients who are pronounced “brain dead.”

 

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Further information:

• Organ donation: Jewish, Muslim presumed consent worries (BBC)
• Welsh archbishop opposes 'presumed consent' policy for organ donation (CWN, 1/2)