Policy for Human Genetic Resources as Compared to Environmental Genetic Resources

Presentation at the international ELSAGEN conference, Ethical, Legal and Social Aspects of Human Genetic Databases, Reykjavik, Iceland, 25-28 August 2004

by: Karin Erika Bengtsson

Abstract
As biotechnological techniques become more advanced and efficient, it becomes increasingly feasible to analyse human samples in existing collections for commercial applications. The way in which this information is used has implications not only for the individual but also for the wider community and the health care system. Notions of identity and self-determination might change in a more consumerist direction. In this paper I argue the case for regarding human genetic information as different from environmental genetic resources as they are covered by the policy framework for the UN Biodiversity Convention. For human genetic resources, rather, an exceptionalist stance is taken. Benefit-sharing in this area tends to accentuate negative dimensions of commercialisation.

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