Berlin. Federal Research Minister Bettina Stark-Watzinger wants to allow more research on embryos and stem cells. The FDP politician is committed to revising the decades-old legal framework. “In view of the rapid progress in cell biology and medical research – even in international comparison – it is no longer up to date,” says an article from her ministry, which was first reported by the “Frankfurter Allgemeine Sonntagszeitung”.
The “Technological Openness Offensive” initiative was sent to several research institutions and aims to spark a debate on greater freedom in science. It states that a number of laws are currently inhibiting innovation and technological progress in Germany. At present, the focus is often on risks and concerns, with the analysis of opportunities and prospects playing a secondary role.
For example, the Embryo Protection Act and the Stem Cell Act set too strict limits for German researchers. Nuclear fusion cannot be subject to the same strict rules as nuclear fission, which is much riskier. “Preparations for the development of a fusion law should therefore begin as soon as possible.” The framework conditions for the use of artificial intelligence also need to be simplified. (dpa)
