Adopting a range of qualitative and quantitative research methods (a systematic literature review, a national survey and interviews), this thesis addresses the following aims:

1. Provide insight into the scale of patients who buy organs for transplantation and describe why, where, how and from whom they purchased organs (chapter 3)
2. Acquire knowledge and understanding of the experiences, attitudes, behaviors and needs of transplant professionals who treat patients before and/or after they buy organs (chapter 4)
3. Examine the modus operandi of those who facilitate illegal transplantations and study the investigation and prosecution of organ trade networks (chapter 5)
4. Assess the possible implications of a punitive, legislative approach (chapter 6)
5. Propose alternative strategies that may deter organ trade more effectively (chapter 7)