International Legal Framework for the Application of Genetic Technologies: Main Features and Issues Open for Discussion

The objective of the present article is to determine specific characteristics established international legal framework for application genetic technologies and identify general guidelines that influence states’ policies in this area. Genetic evolve rapidly, raising a number ethical issues directly affecting human rights. At universal level, there still no treaty containing uniform rules field. regional experience Council Europe deserves further study. National approaches regulation applying differ since States retain great deal discretion regulating these issues. Though Member enjoy margin appreciation use technologies, common distinctive features underlying area can be singled out. These are informed consent, prohibition reproductive cloning, germ line modification with certain exceptions. They arise primarily from Oviedo Convention, Protocols thereto ECtHR practice. Soft law documents adopted at UN, UNESCO contribute process their formation, too, but lesser extent. efforts undertaken European level shape modern field set up course action follow.