Human Genome Modification from a Human-Rights Perspective

Technology in the field of genome editing or human germline engineering and is rapidly developing and will have a crucial role in disease diagnosis and treatments. Nevertheless, using germline-editing methods to modify the human genome raises serious medical, moral, and legal concerns. Modification of germline in humans and passing the edited genes to future generations might lead to unpredictable consequences. Moreover, human germline therapies raise challenges with regard to human rights obligations. The clinical uncertainties about the possible outcomes of the human germline modification on future generations and possible violation of their rights has led to calls for its absolute prohibition. Nevertheless, genome editing is permitted under the rules of international law insofar as it complies with human rights obligations.