Embryonic Stem Cell Research Is 'A Moral Imperative', Says German Academy

[Murray Charters <mcharters@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Embryonic Stem Cell Research Is 'A Moral Imperative', Says German Academy
[Date: 2003-12-16]

Embryonic stem cell research is not only morally admissible, but may be a moral 
imperative, according to a report
published by Europäische Akademie, a German foundation for the study of the 
social implications of science and
technology.

Launched on 15 December in Brussels, the report states that there is a moral 
obligation on society to allow research on
embryos in order to help people who suffer from as yet untreatable or 
insufficiently treatable disabilities or
diseases, such as infertility. The academy adds that the interests of 
researchers working in the area of clinical
research also outweighs society's general interest in protecting embryos.

Bringing together bio-medical, moral, legal and social aspects, this 
interdisciplinary study was carried out over two
years by a group of experts appointed by the academy.

In its report, the group focuses particularly on the different national 
perspectives on embryonic stem cell research,
and comments on the ongoing failure of EU Member States to agree on measures 
for supporting this kind of work with EU
funds. Because views differ between countries, 'future legislation on embryo 
research and other controversial matters
in science and technology policy will have to be both flexible and informed,' 
say the report's authors. 'A simple 'Yes'
or 'No' solution concerning legal harmonisation in Europe is, therefore, not in 
sight,' they conclude.

A categorical ban on embryo research at European level, as called for by some 
Member States, including Germany, would
be a step backwards, says the group. However, there is no guarantee against 
such an outcome, according to the report,
given that a large majority of the European population base their attitudes 
towards embryo research not on concrete
evidence, but on 'images of fear, stereotypes and beliefs.'

Despite this discouraging context, the group still believes in the necessity of 
a European wide harmonised regulation
of embryonic stem cell research. The researchers propose that it be based on 
sound scientific evidence and provide a
long term, stable environment for researchers to work within.

Europäische Akademie's report, 'Embryo research in a pluralistic Europe' was 
supported by the German Federal Ministry
of Education and Research.

For further information, please consult the following web address: 


SOURCE: CORDIS RTD-NEWS


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