The Barcelona Principles: A Global Bioethical Framework

Authors

Kevin P. Corcoran, CAE

Abstract

In 2018, the Global Alliance of Eye Bank Associations (GAEBA), of which EBAA is a founding member, introduced a bioethical agreement regarding the appropriate use of altruistically donated ocular tissue and the responsibility to promote sustainable eye banking operations in countries around the world.

Endorsed by the Cornea Society, the International Agency to Prevent Blindness, the International Council of Ophthalmology and other groups, this agreement came to be known as The Barcelona Principles following their endorsement by the World Health Organization during its meeting in Barcelona. During its governance meetings last month, the American Academy of Ophthalmology endorsed The Barcelona Principles, formalizing its support for the ethical stewardship of donated ocular tissue.

In recognition of AAO’s ratification, IJEB is happy to publish The Barcelona Principles.