Genetic identity concerns in the regulation of novel reproductive technologies

Abstract

Confusion concerning a child’s genetic identity is a common objection to the application of novel technologies to human embryos. Unsurprisingly then, concern for genetic identity has been used to justify successive waves of regulatory activity and is again appearing in debates about regulatory responses to emerging reproductive technologies. By examining the history of Australian law’s understanding and responses to so-called genetic identity in the context of past and current scientific developments in reproductive technology, this paper investigates regulatory reform needed for still emerging reproductive technologies. While this paper presents and analyzes in some detail Australian regulation and the policy deliberations and scientific developments that led to them, the identified inconsistencies in the regulatory responses, and recommended reforms to address emerging reproductive technologies offered, address issues relevant to many countries responding to the same technologies.