ELSI Dialogues: Access and benefit-sharing of genetic resources – the Nagoya Protocol applied to biobanks

The fair and equitable sharing of benefits from genetic resources—known as Access and Benefit-Sharing (ABS)—is a key principle in global research and innovation. Governed by the Nagoya Protocol, this international framework ensures compliance and fair use of genetic material, with 141 countries on board since its enforcement in 2014.

For researchers, biobanks, and institutions, navigating national ABS regulations can be complex, impacting how biological materials are accessed and exchanged. Clear guidelines are essential to streamline compliance while enabling scientific progress.

Melania Muñoz (Leibniz Institute DSMZ) breaks down the Nagoya Protocol and its impact on biobanks. Josephine Uldry (Swiss Biobanking Platform) explores the Swiss regulatory landscape, while Dr. Christian de Guttry (Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics) shares real-world insights of the Nagoya protocol application from Swiss and pan-European research projects.

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