Shaping Common Ground in Neurotech Regulation and Governance

Central concerns in these debates and initiatives include the protection of neural circuitry and the forum internum of human thought, as well as ensuring non-discrimination in access to and use of neurotechnology

From a regulatory standpoint, notable initiatives have already been undertaken not only by individual countries (e.g., Chile, Mexico, and the United States) but also by regional and international organizations such as UNESCO, the UN Human Rights Council, the OECD, the OAS, and the Council of Europe. These are undoubtedly important milestones, yet further progress is required to build a regulatory framework that ensures certainty and security in response to the global challenges posed by neurotechnology.

The objective of the 1st CINET Neurotechnology Conference is to bring together leading academics, members of the neurotechnology industry, and representatives of international organizations to share their experiences and perspectives, highlight pending challenges and gaps, and define the next steps in the ongoing effort to establish a robust regulatory and governance framework for neurotechnology.

Whether protection of the privacy of the forum internum should be achieved by regulating only neural data, or also biometric data capable of inferring mental states (i.e., cognitive biometric data).

How the principle of mental integrity should be understood, how it relates to the rights to physical and psychological integrity, and what kinds of neurotechnological intrusions may erode this right.

 The scope of protection afforded by the right to cognitive liberty, particularly in its relationship to freedom of thought, and whether it should merely shield individuals from neurotechnological intrusions or also guarantee their freedom to use neurotechnology for self-enhancement.

 Whether equitable access to neurotechnology should be prioritized exclusively for medical and clinical purposes, or whether proactive public policies should also promote access for cognitive enhancement, for example in education or employment.

Opening Remarks

9:00 – 9:30 am
Teodoro Sánchez-Ávila Sánchez-Migallón
Álvaro Matud
Javier Bernácer
José M. Muñoz

Closing Remarks

12:30 – 12:45 pm