Charter for the responsible development of neurotechnologies

Neurotechnologies involve the study of the brain and how it functions, using technological innovations to open up new perspectives. Initiated by the French Ministry of Higher Education and Research, this charter enables France to implement the 2019 Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) recommendation on the responsible development of neurotechnologies, the first international standard in this field. It aims to foster the responsible development of neurotechnologies for medical and non-medical applications, by strengthening trust between all stakeholders. It also aims to protect patients and consumers from potentially abusive and malicious uses leading to a loss of cognitive freedom or a failure to respect the confidentiality of personal brain data collected.

To ensure the effectiveness and proper application of the principles set out in this charter, a monitoring committee has been set up. This body regularly brings together 8 personalities with complementary expertise to assess the implementation of the charter's commitments, identify any adjustments required and support the players in a common approach to ethical and technical progress.

A European charter project is currently under consideration, with the aim of extending these commitments internationally.