The Role of International Stakeholders in Genomics and Public Health

Abstract

This chapter analyzes both the theoretical and the practical challenges that the stakeholder involvement raises when making public health decisions are made at an international level. The interconnected nature of scientific research and the global scale of the challenges that public health concerns raise are only likely to increase the international dimension of genomics and public health activities. Moreover, differences in the cultural values, legal frameworks and political goals of the various stakeholders may have a negative impact on future development. How do we acknowledge the international dimension of genomics research and develop strategies that aim to foster international dialogue among the key actors? What groups should be represented? Who can legitimately speak for each group? How to reconcile conflicting interests? What process of involvement would ensure both efficiency and fairness? The chapter aims to answer all these questions.

Keywords: public health, genomics, stakeholders, democracy, policymaking

JEL Classification: I18, O19, K33, D7