What are the legal frameworks for heritable human genome editing in South Africa?

Answer 1

In South Africa, the legal framework for heritable human genome editing is primarily governed by the Health Professions Act (No. 56 of 1974), the National Health Act (No. 61 of 2003), and the Genetically Modified Organisms Act (No. 15 of 1997). These laws regulate the practice of medicine, healthcare, and the use of genetically modified organisms, which would encompass any heritable human genome editing procedures.

Additionally, the South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC) provides guidelines and ethical principles for research involving human subjects, including genetic research. The South African Department of Health also has guidelines and ethical standards for biomedical research involving human subjects, which would likely apply to heritable human genome editing.

It is important to note that South Africa is a signatory to international agreements such as the UNESCO Declaration on the Human Genome and Human Rights, which sets out ethical principles for genetic research and gene editing. These international agreements could also inform the legal framework for heritable human genome editing in the country.