# European organ donation policy developments

> Developing situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/european-organ-donation-policy-developments
> Updated: 2026-10-28T09:55:02.000Z. Sources: 8. Developments: 3.

Legislative and statistical trends regarding organ donation are evolving across Europe. In Germany, lawmakers are debating a shift toward a ‘reversal of the burden of proof’ model, known as ‘Widerspruchslösung’. Under this proposed regulation, individuals would be considered potential organ donors unless they actively register their refusal in an official organ donation register.

In July 2024, the Bundesrat passed a legislative initiative to implement this change. The proposal has received support from 254 members of the Bundestag across various parties, including the CDU/CSU, SPD, Greens, and Die Linke. While the Health Committee reviews the matter, concerns remain regarding the accessibility of the official register for citizens lacking consistent internet access or digital identification.

In the Netherlands, registration numbers have reached 8.2 million adults, driven largely by a 2020 law that automatically registers citizens as donors unless they express a preference. While registrations are increasing, the number of individuals providing explicit consent has declined, and a growing number of people are categorically choosing not to donate. Experts note that the increase in available organs remains modest because relatives reject donation in more than half of the cases.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-28: Germany considers organ donation opt-out model

German legislators are debating an opt-out organ donation model that would require citizens to actively register their refusal to be donors.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/germany-considers-organ-donation-opt-out-model

### 2026-10-28: Netherlands organ donor registrations reach 8.2 million

Organ donor registrations in the Netherlands have risen to 8.2 million adults, largely due to a 2020 law that automatically registers citizens who do not make an explicit choice.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/netherlands-organ-donor-registrations-reach-82-million

### 2026-10-25: Germany considers organ donation law change

German legislators are debating a law that would require citizens to actively register their refusal to be organ donors via digital platforms to avoid automatic donation upon death.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/germany-considers-organ-donation-law-change

---
Cite as: European organ donation policy developments. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/european-organ-donation-policy-developments