Pakistan's illegal organ trade is spreading beyond its borders, according to a recent report. The trade is fueled by widespread poverty and weak enforcement of laws, making the country a hub for organ trafficking.
The report, which was not publicly available in full, highlights how vulnerable individuals are often exploited, with kidneys being the most commonly trafficked organ. Brokers often target poor communities, offering money in exchange for organs, while recipients from other countries travel to Pakistan for transplants.
Despite laws prohibiting organ trade in Pakistan, enforcement remains lax. The report calls for stronger regulatory measures and international cooperation to combat this illicit activity. It also emphasizes the need for better healthcare infrastructure and support for potential donors to reduce the desperation that drives the trade.
Efforts to curb the trade have been limited, and the report suggests that without significant action, the problem will continue to grow. It urges the government to implement stricter penalties and improve oversight of transplant centers.
