The European Center for Disaster Medicine supports the 14th Global Summit of National Ethics Committees
San Marino 17-19 April 2024
European Centre for Disaster Medicine Endorses 14th Global Summit of National Ethics CommitteesThe 14th Global Summit of National Ethics Committees, themed "Crisis, Evolution, Growth," received a significant endorsement from the European Centre for Disaster Medicine (CEMEC). Hosted by The San Marino Bioethics Committee in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNESCO, this event was expected to be a milestone in addressing critical global challenges.
Every two years, the Global Summit convened representatives from National Ethics and Bioethics Committees worldwide, offering a platform for international discourse on pressing bioethical issues. This year, against the backdrop of escalating human and natural disasters, worsened by global warming and the COVID-19 pandemic, the Summit focused on dealing with uncertainty during crises.
The event, which was attended by Dr. Hans Henri P. Kluge - Regional Director WHO for Europe, had objectives that included fostering consensus among nations, facilitating exchanges on bioethical matters, and convening regional forums of National Ethics Committees.
Key areas of discussion were:
Preparing for crises in times of resource shortages: This pillar examined the role of National Ethics Committees in ensuring food security, particularly amid challenges posed by climate change, conflicts, and the pandemic.
Pandemic preparedness: Lessons learned from past crises like Ebola, Zika, and COVID-19 were explored, guiding future preparedness efforts for public health emergencies.
Fostering inclusion for persons with disabilities and vulnerable groups: The Summit evaluated the impact of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities on emergency preparedness and healthcare access.
Striving for equity in medical innovations: Discussions revolved around ethical considerations in the introduction of innovative technologies, ensuring equitable access and benefit sharing, especially in low-resource settings.
Promoting public engagement and trust in public health: In the wake of the pandemic, restoring trust in science and public institutions became paramount. NECs explored strategies to combat misinformation and foster dialogue.
Parallel sessions delved deeper into these topics, offering a comprehensive understanding of ethical challenges in crisis management.
With the endorsement of CEMEC, the 14th Global Summit of National Ethics Committees underscored the urgency of ethical discourse in addressing global crises. By uniting diverse voices and perspectives, the Summit aimed to chart a course towards ethical solutions for a more resilient and equitable future.
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