The ethical dimension of neurotechnology

Research into neurotechnology has made rapid progress in recent years. Neurotechnologies comprise systems that act as a direct interface between the brain and computers. Examples include cochlear implants, which help the hearing-impaired and deaf to hear again or more clearly, and brain scanners that enable paralysed people to communicate with their environment again by transmitting their thoughts to computers or robots.

Many neurotechnological applications could soon become part of our everyday lives. While they have enormous potential benefits for diagnostic, therapeutic, rehabilitative and assistive purposes — for example, for people with disabilities — they also raise significant ethical questions. Who owns the data produced by our brains, and how can our privacy be protected if our thoughts are read? In what circumstances should neurotechnology be permitted to alter our memories, and what would that mean for our identity? How can we safeguard our free will when companies use neuromarketing techniques — marketing products based on neurotechnology — to influence us?

As more and more applications aimed at healthy people are being developed, the overarching question of how we, as a society, deal with technology that can measure and influence the brain is becoming increasingly important. Many of these neurotechnological applications focus on self-optimisation, such as enhancing concentration and memory.

In November 2023, it was decided by the UNESCO General Conference that ethical guidelines for dealing with these technologies should be developed in the form of a UNESCO Recommendation. This international legal text will address legal and socio-political issues related to neurotechnology applications. Technical issues will not be the main focus. An initial draft was developed by an international group of experts and then consulted on in a broad, international process. In May 2025, a special committee of technical and legal experts appointed by UNESCO Member States met to negotiate and reach agreement on the final version of the text. It is expected to be adopted at the next session of the UNESCO General Conference at the end of 2025.

The new UNESCO Recommendation is based on the 2021 International Bioethics Committee (IBC)External link: report “Ethical Issues of Neurotechnology”External link:.