27/05/24 (Agence Europe) – On Monday 27 May, the EU Council adopted without debate new rules aimed at improving the safety and quality of blood, tissues and cells used in healthcare and facilitating the cross-border circulation of these substances within the EU (see EUROPE 13414/2). The new regulation stipulates that, as a matter of principle, donations of substances of human origin should be voluntary and unpaid, and that donors should not benefit from any financial incentive to donate. Living donors may receive compensation or reimbursement, as appropriate, in accordance with national legislation. Once signed by the EU Council and the European Parliament, the regulation will then enter into force following its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union. (LC)