One of the ways in which traffickers use and exploit their victims is through the removal of organs or organ harvesting.
The removal of organs is trafficking people so as to use their internal organs for transplant.
Trafficking for the removal of organs can happen in different ways. In some cases, traffickers force or deceive the victims into giving up an organ. In other cases, victims agree to sell their organ, but are cheated because they are not paid for the organ or are paid less than the promised price. In some cases, vulnerable victims who are admitted to a hospital or medical centre due to their own health complaints are treated for an illness which they may or may not even have, and in the process of such treatment, have their organs removed without their knowledge or consent. This has a major impact on the person’s right to health.
The most vulnerable groups of people who are at risk to trafficking for organ removal are migrants, especially migrant workers, homeless people and illiterate people. Trafficking for the organ trade can affect people of any age, as long as their organs are valid for transplant. Organs which are commonly traded are the kidneys and liver, yet any organ which can be removed and used could be the subject of illegal trade.
Trafficking for the removal of organs is usually well organized and coordinated, using the health system. This is because it involves not only the recruiter who identifies the vulnerable person and the transporter, but also the staff of the hospital or other medical centres, medical professionals, banks where organs are stored, contractors, and the buyers who are in need of the removed organ.
Lithuanian Law
Lithuania’s Criminal Code prohibits removal of organs, tissue or cells both in cases of human trafficking and other cases. This means that if anyone offers money or other goods in exchange for the organs of either living or deceased persons, it is considered a criminal offence.
While not in force in Lithuania, the existence of the Council of Europe Convention against Trafficking in Human Organs should be noted.