The organisation’s Governing Body announced the change in a statement issued by its World Headquarters in Warwick, New York, and published on its official website on Friday.
Under the revised policy, members can decide for themselves whether to accept red blood cells, white blood cells, plasma or platelets from another person.
They can also personally decide whether to donate blood specifically for the purpose of providing these components or fractions for another person’s medical treatment.
However, the organisation clarified that its longstanding position against whole-blood transfusions remains unchanged. It based the position on the biblical instruction to “abstain from blood” in Acts 15:20.
International spokesman Paul Gillies said blood remains sacred to Jehovah’s Witnesses, adding that the organisation continues to regard life and blood as gifts from God.
He explained that decisions concerning the use of the four blood components are matters of personal conscience between individual Witnesses and Jehovah.
According to the organisation, the latest change follows previous adjustments regarding blood fractions and the use of a person’s own blood during medical procedures.
It said the Bible does not specifically address decisions involving the four main blood components, leaving such matters to the conscience of individual members.
Jehovah’s Witnesses also stated that they seek quality medical care and do not practise faith healing. Members are encouraged to choose doctors who can provide effective treatment in line with their personal beliefs and wishes.
Gillies added that local congregations would not interfere in members’ personal medical decisions but would continue to respect and support them.
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