Problems of the Law on Organ Transplant and the Situation of Organ Transplantation in Japan

摘要

This article outlines the situation in Japan, where organ transplantation is making very slow progress, and discusses what can be done to facilitate smooth performance of organ transplantation.The Law on Organ Transplant was enacted in 1997. This Law was a private member's bill and subject to a free vote to reflect the independent will of each House member, and passed the House of Representatives and the House of Councilors. Article 2 of the supplementary provision of the Law states, "Concerning organ transplantation according to this Law, a comprehensive review should be made considering the actual implementation of the Law and necessary measures should be taken by approximately 3 years after implementation of this Law." However, no amendment has been enacted to date, and defects in the Law and problems in the application of the Law are hindering the progress of organ transplantation in Japan, as compared with the situation in other countries. The sections below consider the treatment of this Law in the legislative body, focusing on whether and how the Law is expected to be amended.