158th Session of the Executive Board of the World Health Organization on Agenda Item 9: Universal Health Coverage Increasing availability, ethical access and oversight of transplantation of human cells, tissues and organs

Mr. Chair,

My Delegation takes note of the report and the elements outlined for the proposed Global Strategy for Donation and Transplantation of Human Cells, Tissues and Organs.

The Holy See has consistently stated that organ donation after death is a noble and meritorious act, and a profound expression of ‘generous solidarity’.[1] The Holy See also maintains that transplants must always be performed ethically, in a way that respects human dignity. 

In this regard, my Delegation takes note of the WHO’s assurances that its work to develop the proposed Global Strategy for Donation and Transplantation of Human Cells, Tissues and Organs is based on respect for the dignity of both donors and recipients, equitable access to healthcare, and optimization of safety. In particular, my Delegation welcomes the continued emphasis on voluntary and non-remunerated donations, and on free and informed decision-making, as well as the protection of vulnerable persons. Furthermore, to ensure that the dignity of the human person is respected, it is fundamental to keep vigilance and avoid any exploitation of the human person in the pursuit of the above-mentioned goals. The human body must never be reduced to, or treated as, an object of trade. 

Mr. Chair,

My Delegation would also like to comment specifically on the sixth strategic objective of the proposed strategy: Investment in growth and innovation, particularly on its reference to biotechnology and xenotransplantation. 

As alternative sources to human organ transplantation are researched, three conditions should be fully respected and guaranteed with regard to xenotransplantation:

1. Safety: Physicians must assess “the possible objective and subjective impact that an organ or tissue of animal origin can have on the identity of the human recipient”[2] and ensure his or her safety.

2. Identity: The personal identity of the recipient must be preserved. In general, the implantation of a foreign organ raises ethical concerns due to the extent of change it entails for the person receiving it.[3] In particular, the transplant of procreative organs, or parts of the human brain, which are responsible for the personal identity, is morally unacceptable. Transplants must not impair the integrity of the psychological or genetic integrity of the person, and there must be a proven biological possibility of success, without exposing the recipient to undue risk.[4]

3. Animal Welfare: While human enjoy a unique and elevated position within the created order, human dignity entails a responsibility for stewardship of creation, not an absolute dominion. Therefore, any unnecessary suffering of animals must be prevented, and the biodiversity and the balance of species within the created order must be respected as research in this area is pursued.

Finally, regarding bio-technology and bio-engineering, my Delegation would like to make the following remarks: 

While these technologies could indeed make a real impact in meeting the demand for organs, cells and tissues, it is essential that stem cells used in these processes are obtained through morally acceptable techniques. In this regard, the Holy See deems unacceptable and strongly condemns the use of pluripotent embryonic stem cells. This includes cells derived from embryos so-called “left over” following IVF procedures, or “manufactured” by IVF specifically for the purpose of obtaining stem cells. The Holy See also condemns the use of foetal cells and tissues derived from aborted foetuses.[5] The mere notion of treating the human embryo or foetus as “therapeutic material” contradicts the fundamental principles upon which the human dignity rests.[6] Human beings must be respected as human persons from conception.

Therefore, my Delegation strongly encourages the scientific community to focus its innovations on the use of adult stem cells and tissues of licit origin obtained by ethical means and in full accordance with the above indicated criteria, as a way to address the shortages of organ, cell, and tissue transplants.[7] 

Thank you, Mr. Chair.