The Advisory Council has approved the draft of the "Human Organ Transplantation Ordinance, 2025," paving the way for broader legal organ donations and transplant procedures within Bangladesh.
Speaking at a press briefing at the Foreign Service Academy on Thursday, Shafiqul Alam, Press Secretary to the Chief Advisor, stated that the updated law expands the scope of organ donation, allowing for legal transplant operations within the country.
He also noted changes in the policy for body donation after death for the benefit of medical research and treatment.
"The ordinance was discussed in detail at the Council meeting," said Shafiqul. "For example, kidney failure or blindness due to corneal damage can now be treated more effectively. Bangladesh`s existing laws had not been updated for a long time. Consultations were held with the Ministry of Health, hospitals specializing in organ transplants, and relevant experts. International laws were also reviewed before drafting the new ordinance."
One major change includes expanding the list of eligible donors. Previously, only immediate family members such as parents, siblings, or children could legally donate organs. Now, extended relatives like nephews and nieces are also eligible donors.
"This development will reduce the need for patients to travel abroad for transplants or rely on illegal means," Shafiqul explained. "Bangladeshi hospitals will now be able to offer these services legally and more easily."
He emphasized that the government considers this new law a groundbreaking step for Bangladesh`s healthcare system.
In response to a question about who can now donate organs, the Press Secretary said the updated law provides detailed guidelines and includes individuals who were previously excluded, such as nephews and nieces.
He also noted that those who pledge to donate their bodies after death will now have their organs used legally for medical purposes under the new provisions. A copy of the ordinance can be obtained from the Ministry of Health.
Deputy Press Secretary Apurba Jahangir and Assistant Press Secretaries Suchismita Tithi and Naeem Ali were also present at the briefing.
