On the Protection of the Rights of Future Generations in the Context of Human Germline Genome Editing

Human germline genome editing has inherent risks in the use of the technologies, as well as unknown genetic and social risks. The application of such technologies by the present generations will adversely affect human dignity, right to life and health, right to biological information integrity, genetic autonomy and other specific rights of future generations. Legal protection should be provided for the rights of future generations affected by human germline genome editing, which is supported by the theories of intergenerational equity,the intergenerational social contract and an intergenerational community with a shared future for human beings. In spite of the continuously improved regulation of germline genome editing in China, the attention paid to the rights of future generations remains insufficient.Learning from international legislation, in combination with the current research and applications of germline genome editing, China can strengthen the protection of the rights of future generations in the context of human germline gene editing from three aspects: clarifying the principles and contents regarding the rights protection of future generations, strengthening the oversight of germline genome editing,and promoting the implementation of laws and regulations such as the Biosecurity Law.