ABSTRACT
Traditionally in Greece, physicians have enjoyed considerable paternalistic authority over their patients and society. In Greece research ethics committees (RECs) only have advisory powers. The approval of an REC is necessary for research to go ahead; however, the project also has to be approved on its scientific merit by Scientific Committee. In Greece no specific detailed legislation exists regarding the function of RECs, their terms of reference or issues of membership, access or independence. Thus, the remit and practice of such committees is still being developed. Moreover, neither the Greek Medical Association nor other relevant bodies have issued any guidelines regarding ethics committees. Any natural or legal person whose legal interest can be affected by decision of an REC has the right to bring an action against the Committee. Greece recently signed the Additional Protocol to the Convention concerning Biomedical Research; a subsequent ratification of this Protocol will lead to further obligations regarding the establishment and functioning of ethics committees.
