Kirstin Matthews, fellow in science and technology, answers questions regarding the biology, practical uses and ethical dilemmas surrounding stem cells.
This study assesses the state of stem cell research in the Greater Middle East, reports on the policy and ethical considerations facing the region, and determines the impact of international research collaborations in this area.
Jesse M. Flynn, Kirstin R.W. MatthewsMarch 3, 2010
In March 2009, the James A. Baker III Institute for Public Policy and the Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development co-hosted a workshop in Doha, Qatar, on stem cell research, policies, and regulations. The event highlighted current stem cell science, as well as stem cell policies and ethics. The discussion focused on policies around the globe and the religious views of embryonic stem cell research from the Christian, Jewish, and Muslim perspectives. The workshop was organized so that outcomes from the event could be relevant to the development of Qatar"s up-and-coming stem cell research. Based on the presentation from the event, the advisory panel for the Baker Institute International Stem Cell Policy Program made a series of recommendations for the new stem cell initiative in Qatar, including the suggestion for outreach to the Qatari community.
A program to bring together scientists, ethicists, policymakers, media experts, and community and business leaders to find new ways to engage the general public in a dialogue on international stem cell policies and the ethical use of stem cells for research.