Gene Editing and the Environment (the International Legal Challenges)

Abstract

The article examines the problems of risks inherent in gene technologies, which pose a potential danger of a destructive impact on the environment; analyzes the possibilities and prospects for controlling these risks using the mechanisms of international law. The lack of a unified approach in the legislation and practice of the application of international law in the countries most actively using gene technologies is stated. These provisions significantly complicate the search for consensus between the subjects of international law and increase the likelihood and danger of causing significant harm in the course of targeted manipulation of genomes. It is noted that the current regulation of research practice in international documents does not correspond to the current level of genetic engineering. Particular attention is paid to the safety of research laboratories and the analysis of incidents with different risks to human life and health. On this basis, the question is raised about the ability of legal systems to cope with the risks of dangerous consequences of such incidents. The need for a unified approach and the development of an international agreement in the field of genetic research is emphasized on the basis of the system of principles for regulating research in this area proposed by the authors.