Consent to and Authorisation of the Export and Use of Human Biological Specimens for Future Research – Perspectives from Three African Countries

Abstract

In light of previous exploitation, less developed countries, understandably, are suspicious of any effort that weakens in the name of scientific progress the highly-valued notions of individual autonomy and informed consent. When researchers import human biological specimens for the purposes of research which will benefit those in developed countries, the charge of scientific imperialism is automatically levelled. Using three countries in Africa as a starting point for the study, the article examines the consent and authorisation requirements for the export of human biological specimens, gathered from health research in the developing world, for subsequent research projects in the developed world. The article concludes that there is an urgent need to strengthen the ethical and legal framework in Africa which governs consent to, and authorisation of the export and use of human biological specimens for future research.