Blood donation in Sweden rests entirely on altruism – giving without receiving anything in return.
Altruism means acting for the benefit of another without personal gain. In blood donation, altruism is not only an ethical stance but a practical necessity: both the WHO and the Council of Europe recommend voluntary, unpaid donation, partly because payment can give reason not to disclose accurate information in the health declaration.
Why do people donate?
Studies from many countries consistently show that most donors give for altruistic reasons. Social reasons – friends and family who already donate – are also a strong driver, and donating strengthens self-esteem.
The human body is inalienable
The association opposes all forms of marketing and profit relating to blood and blood derivatives. Blood should be given as a gift, not sold as a commodity.