Declaration of Helsinki turns 60 – how this foundational document of medical ethics has stood the test of time; The Conversation, October 24, 2024

Dominic Wilkinson, Consultant Neonatologist and Professor of Ethics, University of Oxford , The Conversation; Declaration of Helsinki turns 60 – how this foundational document of medical ethics has stood the test of time

"If you’re not familiar with the declaration – adopted by the World Medical Association on October 19 1964 – here is an explainer on this highly influential document: how it emerged, how it evolved and where it may be heading.

What is the declaration of Helsinki?

The World Medical Association was set up in the late 1940s in response to atrocities committed in the name of medical research during the second world war. It was focused on promoting and safeguarding medical ethics and human rights. 

Agreed at a meeting in Finland in 1964, the first version of the declaration included principles that have become the cornerstone of global research ethics. These include the importance of carefully assessing the risks and benefits of research projects, and seeking informed consent from those taking part in research."