Australian Senate Takes Landmark Action to Combat Illegal Organ Harvesting Through New Legislation
The Australian Senate has approved a bill aimed at combating crimes related to illegal organ harvesting. The Migration Amendment (Overseas Organ Transplant Disclosure and Other Measures) Bill 2023, introduced by Liberal Senator Dean Smith, was passed on Aug. 21 with support from various senators. The bill will now move to the House of Representatives for further discussion.
Under this legislation, people entering or returning to Australia by sea or air must disclose on the incoming passenger card if they have had an organ transplant abroad in the last five years. If they answer affirmatively, they will need to provide details such as the country, state, locality, and medical facility where the transplant occurred. This information will be compiled and published in an annual report presented in Parliament.
The bill also includes provisions to fail a person’s character test if there are reasonable suspicions of involvement in human organ trafficking, leading to visa refusal or cancellation.
First Step for Australia
Liberal Senator Dean Smith emphasized the importance of this bill’s passage, calling it a significant step in combating illegal organ harvesting and trafficking. He stated that this initiative would help uncover the extent of these criminal activities and assist in developing a stronger response from the Australian government.
Most Exploitative Practice: Greens
Greens Senator David Shoebridge praised the passing of the bill, saying it aligns Australia with international efforts to combat organ trafficking. He criticized the exploitative nature of individuals traveling to other countries to obtain organs due to economic coercion and lack of genuine consent.
Shoebridge highlighted the issue of forced organ harvesting, particularly among Falun Gong practitioners, and hailed the bill as a crucial step in addressing this human rights violation.
Labor Party, however, opposed the bill, arguing that existing laws already address the issue of character concerns and organ trafficking. Despite this opposition, Labor acknowledges organ trafficking as a form of modern slavery.
Overall, the passing of this bill marks a significant milestone in Australia’s fight against illegal organ harvesting and trafficking, bringing the country closer to international standards and efforts.
