The minister responsible believes that several laws are hindering research in Germany. She wants a debate, otherwise the protection of embryos could also be weakened.
Research Minister Bettina Stark-Watzinger wants to enable more research into embryos and stem cells. The FDP politician is committed to revising the legal framework, which is several decades old. “In view of the rapid advances in cell biology and medical research – also in international comparison – it is no longer up to date,” says a paper from her ministry, which was first reported on by the “Frankfurter Allgemeine Sonntagszeitung”.
The discussion paper entitled “Offensive for technological openness” was sent to various research institutions and is intended to initiate a debate about more freedom in science. There are a number of laws that hinder innovation and technological progress in Germany, it says. Currently, the focus is too often on risks and concerns, with the analysis of opportunities and perspectives playing a secondary role.
For example, the Embryo Protection Act and the Stem Cell Act place too narrow limits on German researchers. Nuclear fusion cannot be subject to the same strict rules as the much riskier nuclear fission. “That is why preparations for the drafting of a fusion law should begin as soon as possible.” The framework conditions for the use of artificial intelligence must also be simplified.
Source: Stern
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