ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on the implementation of the Universal Declaration on Bioethics and Human Rights (UDBHR) adopted by the UNESCO General Conference in October 2005. It begins with an explanation of the role of UNESCO in Ethics and an overview of the kind of normative instruments that have been used to fulfill the standard-setting responsibilities of UNESCO. It will then review the discussions that took place between the International Bioethics Committee (IBC), the Intergovernmental Bioethics Committee (IGBC) and the Government Experts in Bioethics during the preparation of the Declaration. The purpose of these discussions was to finalize the articles of the Declaration that would have an impact on its implementation and on follow-up action taken by UNESCO. The chapter concludes with some observations about the agenda needed to pursue the attainment of UNESCO’s Global Bioethics goals for the future.
