World Health Organization (WHO)

Topic Guide

Chairs: Samhita Tumuluri & Evva Vassiliou
Email: [email protected] & [email protected]

Topic A: Regulating Ethics of CRISPR and Human Germline Editing
Gene editing, although revolutionary to the field of science and medicine, raises a multitude of ethical concerns when applied to human embryos. Germline editing refers to the modification of eggs, sperm, or early embryo DNA, making heritable changes. Within germline editing, CRISPR-Cas9 technology has become central to many discussions and experiments. CRISPR-Cas9 technology allows scientists to target and modify DNA sequences through a 2-part system precisely: the Cas-9 enzyme, acting as molecular scissors to cut the DNA, and a guide RNA (gRNA), directing Cas9 to the specific sequence to be edited. Although CRISPR-Cas9 is widely known and used, its efficiency is not without fault. Germline editing is prohibited in many countries due to ethical concerns, primarily relating to safety and consent. Without clear regulation, the technology could be misused or lead to global inequality in healthcare access. Still, genome editing has opened a door in scientific exploration and has helped scientists develop various gene therapies to prevent and treat diseases. In 2018, to examine scientific, ethical, social, and legal challenges within human genome editing, the WHO established a global, multidisciplinary Expert Advisory Committee; still, these guidelines may need reassessment to have gaps filled or be strengthened as necessary. As the science of genome editing advances rapidly, ethical discourse and international regulation must evolve alongside it. While the promise of eliminating genetic diseases is compelling, the potential for misuse and long-term societal consequences demands careful oversight. Ultimately, a globally unified approach is essential to ensure that germline editing serves humanity, rather than dividing it.

Topic B: Protecting Informed Consent in Clinical Trials in Developing Countries
As clinical trials expand their demographic to individuals in developing countries, ethical concerns arise, particularly concerning informed consent. Informed consent is the voluntary agreement to participate with full knowledge of the possible risks and benefits. In a clinical setting, informed consent is often legally mandated. However, people in these developing countries are often recruited without truly understanding the risks, procedures, and their right to refuse participation. It is especially common for these undereducated people to be simultaneously more at risk for various diseases, as well as having issues with informed consent. Furthermore, language barriers, low literacy rates, and cultural divides make it even more difficult to communicate the complex concepts involved. It is also important to note that participants often feel pressured to consent due to promises of free healthcare or financial compensation, which is particularly appealing to those living in poverty. As a leader in public health, the WHO has a responsibility to protect human rights while allowing the progression of science. The WHO has a responsibility to promote health, ensure safety, and serve the underprivileged. Delegates should consider ways to maximize the WHO’s ability to fulfill all of its responsibilities. This includes refining informed consent in disadvantaged communities, safeguarding requirements for ethical trials, and how exactly the WHO can provide support.

Committees

World Health Organization (WHO)