Fri, 26 Jun 2026 Kyiv 20:03Berlin 19:03London 18:03 UKR / DE / EN

Bundestag debates opt-out system for organ donation

The Bundestag has debated introducing an opt-out system for organ donations. According to Deutschlandfunk, the proposal stipulates that every citizen is considered a potential donor unless they have explicitly objected.

Bundestag debates opt-out system for organ donation
Photo: bilder.deutschlandfunk.de

The initiative is supported by lawmakers from several parliamentary groups. Currently, Germany follows an opt-in system: organ donation is only possible if the deceased explicitly consented during their lifetime.

Proponents of the opt-out system hope for a significant increase in donor numbers. They argue that countries with such a system have considerably higher donation rates. Critics, however, warn of an infringement on citizens’ right to self-determination.

EuroPulse reported on June 23, 2026, about additional income of Bundestag members: one third of lawmakers receive extra earnings (https://europulse.today/nebeneinkuenfte-bundestag-drittel-abgeordnete/).

Source: www.deutschlandfunk.de