What's right: gay men to donate blood in Luxembourg

ARA City Radio

Luxembourg is taking a progressive step forward by allowing gay men to donate blood, as confirmed by Health Minister Martine Deprez. This reform aligns with the nationalisation of the country's blood donation service. Historically, bans on donations from gay and bisexual men stemmed from outdated HIV screening limitations during the early AIDS crisis. Today, advanced testing and updated regulations focus on individual sexual behavior rather than orientation. The change comes amid concerns raised by the Luxembourg Red Cross, which reported critically low blood reserves last November. Minister Deprez assured that the necessary regulation is "almost complete," reflecting a growing global shift towards inclusive donation policies. This move not only boosts blood supply but also fosters equality and modernizes public health practices.