Further regulation of this can be found in the Biotechnology Act (lovdata.no, in Norwegian) and the Biobank Act (lovdata.no, in Norwegian).

Human medical use only

The Biotechnology Act regulates the medical use of biotechnology in humans. This includes:

  • assisted reproduction
  • preimplantation genetic testing (genetic testing of fertilised eggs)
  • research on fertilised eggs
  • prohibition of cloning
  • prenatal diagnosis
  • use of foetal tissue
  • genetic testing of born individuals
  • gene therapy

Room for Everyone

The purpose clause of the Biotechnology Act states that the medical use of biotechnology must benefit of people in a society with room for everyone.

This is to be done in accordance with principles of respect for human dignity, human rights and personal integrity, and without discrimination based on genetic heritage, in line with the ethical norms rooted in our Western cultural heritage. The Directorate of Health must approve biotechnological activities.

The Ministry of Health and Care Services is also responsible for the provisions of the Gene Technology Act (lovdata.no, in Norwegian) that concern cloning and genetically modified organisms in laboratories and facilities.

The Norwegian Biotechnology Advisory Board

The Biotechnology Council (bioteknologiradet.no/english) is an independent advisory body appointed by the government. It is also a consultative body for the Norwegian authorities in matters concerning modern biotechnology.

The Council provides information to the public and the public administration, and promotes debate on the ethical and societal consequences of using modern biotechnology.