Hundreds on the Edge of Life and Death in Montenegro: Organ Donation is a Life-or-Death Matter, But Society is Asleep!
Imagine this — nearly 100 people in Montenegro are waiting for organ transplants. Yes, one hundred! Each of them is fighting between life and death, yet as a society, we still don’t grasp how important organ donation is. Is it possible that in the 21st century, in a country with about 620,000 people, we lack sufficient education on how one donor card can save a life?
Organ Donation — A Taboo Slowly Losing Its Grip
Once a taboo topic, organ donation is now increasingly discussed publicly. Still, awareness remains low. Dr. Elvir Zvrko emphasizes that every life saved is priceless, but public consciousness about donation is still weak. “I think the donor card is a great thing and I will definitely get one soon,” says one citizen, while another warns that making donation mandatory by law might be the only way to increase donor numbers.
Religious Organizations Support Humanity, But With Caution
Is organ donation compatible with religious teachings? Representatives of religious communities in Montenegro say yes, but with caution. Metropolitan Gojko Perović stresses that ethics in this process is key and that possible abuses must be guarded against. The Catholic Church, through Don Robert Tonsati, supports donation, highlighting it as an act of care for the physical and spiritual needs of a person. The Islamic community, through Fuad Čekić, considers donation a permanent waqf, meaning the donor continues to receive good deeds as long as the organ serves another.
Abuse and Fears — Who’s to Blame for Our Reluctance?
However, not everything is rosy. There are legitimate fears that organs might end up in the wrong hands, abused for profit rather than saving lives. These fears hinder the development of a donation culture in Montenegro. Is it time for the state to introduce mandatory donation? Is that the only way to save lives?
Conclusion: Organ Donation is a Matter of Life and Death — Don’t Let Fears Hold You Back!
While hundreds wait for salvation, society remains insufficiently aware. Religious communities stand on the side of humanity but demand transparency and ethics. A donor card is not just a piece of paper — it’s a chance for a new life. So, if you haven’t yet, think about it. Maybe your decision will save someone’s life.
What about you? Would you donate your organ? Or do you think it’s too risky? Drop a comment, let’s see who’s for and who’s against — and why! Let the debate begin!
