The ethics of biotechnology

Ethical considerations pertaining to biotechnology have progressively been introduced into European community law, especially with regard to research, the environment, patents, animal welfare and medicine. This article addresses the ethics of biotechnology at the European Union (EU) level. It provides insight into the European Group of Ethics and describes how European ethical values concerning science and technology are defined by law and intimately connected to Europe's cultural and political identity. In addition, this article highlights the critical need for an independent and permanent international body to spearhead discussion and collaboration so that views between the different cultures of the world can be exchanged, and, to assure access to experts whose legitimacy and accountability are universally recognized.