Human Rights and the Genome

The following is excerpted from a very lengthy and prolix statement.

Universal Declaration on the Human Genome and Human Rights

The Universal Declaration on the Human Genome and Human Rights was adopted unanimously and by acclamation at UNESCO's 29th General Conference on 11 November 1997. The following year, the United Nations General Assembly endorsed the Declaration.

Universal Declaration on the Human Genome and Human Rights 11 November 1997

The General Conference,

Proclaims the principles that follow and adopts the present Declaration. 


A. Human dignity and the human genome

Article 1 

The human genome underlies the fundamental unity of all members of the human family, as well as the recognition of their inherent dignity and diversity. In a symbolic sense, it is the heritage of humanity. 

Article 2 

(a) Everyone has a right to respect for their dignity and for their rights regardless of their genetic characteristics. 

(b) That dignity makes it imperative not to reduce individuals to their genetic characteristics and to respect their uniqueness and diversity. 

Article 3 

The human genome, which by its nature evolves, is subject to mutations. It contains potentialities that are expressed differently according to each individual’s natural and social environment, including the individual’s state of health, living conditions, nutrition and education. 

Article 4 

The human genome in its natural state shall not give rise to financial gains.