NEWS –  Member States, led by Spain, approved a new resolution on increasing availability, ethical access, and oversight of transplantation of human cells, tissues, and organs

HIGHLIGHTS

1. Key Points of the Draft Resolution:
   • Emphasizes increasing availability in line with WHO Guiding Principles on Human Cell, Tissue, and Organ Transplantation.
   • Encourages donation after neurological determination of death and circulatory determination of death.
   • Highlights the link between insufficient access to transplantation therapies and trafficking in persons for organ removal and trafficking in human organs.
2. Establishment of Expert Committee:
   • Urges the director-general to establish an expert committee to develop a global strategy and oversee its implementation.
3. Global Strategy Development:
   • Countries are tasked with developing a global strategy, to be adopted in 2026, addressing transplantation issues.
   • Encourages the establishment of World Donor Day for raising awareness and donations.

WORLD HEALTH ASSEMBLY (WHA)

• The decision-making body of the World Health Organization (WHO), attended by delegations from all WHO Member States.
• Focuses on specific health agendas prepared by the Executive Board.
• Key functions include determining policies, appointing the Director-General, supervising financial policies, and reviewing/approving the proposed budget.
• Held annually in Geneva, Switzerland, the WHA plays a crucial role in global health policy and governance.