International Conference on the Ethics of Neurotechnology
13 July 2023, UNESCO Paris
UNESCO organized an International Conference on the Ethics of Neurotechnology on the theme "Towards an Ethical Framework in the Protection and Promotion of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms" at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris, on 13 July 2023.
Engaging all relevant stakeholders, including policymakers, lawmakers, scientists, ethicists, practitioners, and private sector companies, is crucial to gather various views and prepare the ground for shaping the ethical governance of neurotechnology.
Message of António Guterres
Secretary-General of the United Nations
Programme
A high-level session with ministers and policy makers focusing on policy actions and international cooperation will be featured in the Conference. Renowned experts will also be invited to discuss technological advancements in Neurotechnology and ethical challenges and human rights Implications. Two fireside chats will be organized to enrich the discussions focusing on the private sector, public awareness raising and public engagement. The Conference will also feature a new study of UNESCO's Social and Human Sciences Sector shedding light on innovations in neurotechnology, key actors worldwide and key areas of development.
Thursday, 13 July 2023
9:30-9:45 - Welcoming Remarks
9:45-10:00 - Special Addresses
10:00-10:45 - Scene-Setting Address
11:00-12:30 - High-Level Session - Regulations and policy actions
14:00-15:15 - Expert Session - Technological advancement and opportunities
15:30-16:15 - Fireside Chat - Launch of the UNESCO publication “Unveiling the neurotechnology landscape: scientific advancements, innovations and major trends”
16:15-17:30 - Expert Session - Ethical challenges and human rights implications
17:30-18:15 - Fireside Chat - “Why neurotechnology matters for all”
18:15-18:30 - Concluding Session
As one of the most promising technologies of our time, neurotechnology is providing new treatments and improving preventative and therapeutic options for millions of individuals suffering from neurological and mental illness. Neurotechnology is also transforming other aspects of our lives, from student learning and cognition to virtual and augmented reality systems and entertainment. While we celebrate these unprecedented opportunities, we must be vigilant against new challenges arising from the rapid and unregulated development and deployment of this innovative technology, including among others the risks to mental integrity, human dignity, personal identity, autonomy, fairness and equity, and mental privacy.
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