Springer Regulations Regarding Living Organ Donation in Europe: Possibilities of Harmonisation

Organ transplantation is a much-discussed subject, and the importance of living organ donation is increasing significantly. Yet despite all efforts, too few donor organs are available to help all patients in need. This book analyses whether the national legal regulations are also partly responsible for the organ shortage in the Member States of the European Union. In addition to a detailed analysis of the various national regulations, the main arguments in favour of and against legal restrictions on living organ donation are considered. Furthermore, the European Union’s authority is investigated, namely, whether it is entitled to establish statutory provisions for the Member States with respect to a harmonized regulation of living organ donation. Based on the results of the analysis, the author establishes a Best Practice Proposal for living organ donation. Review From the reviews:“This book analyzes similarities and differences in living organ donation laws and dogma among 30 European countries … . The book targets all persons involved in transplantation -- surgeons, physicians … fellows, transplant coordinators, and all those involved in the pretransplant evaluation process, as well as members of the law and ethics committees. It is written at a level appropriate for both students and practitioners in these areas. … this is the first book of its type and will serve as a valuable reference.” (Jeffrey Lowell, Doody’s Book Reviews, October, 2013) From the Back Cover Organ transplantation is a much-discussed subject, and the importance of living organ donation is increasing significantly. Yet despite all efforts, too few donor organs are available to help all patients in need. This book analyses whether the national legal regulations are also partly responsible for the organ shortage in the Member States of the European Union. In addition to a detailed analysis of the various national regulations, the main arguments in favour of and against legal restrictions on living organ donation are considered. Furthermore, the European Union’s authority is investigated, namely, whether it is entitled to establish statutory provisions for the Member States with respect to a harmonized regulation of living organ donation. Based on the results of the analysis, the author establishes a Best Practice Proposal for living organ donation.