Neurotechnology's rapid evolution – What consequences for the EU regulatory landscape?

Neurotechnology, where neuroscience meets technology, includes all the tools and methods that are used to improve our understanding of how the human brain functions as well as what can be done to improve or repair the brain’s capacities. These advancements are opening new possibilities across various aspects of life, from healthcare to daily activities.

However, the rapid development of neurotechnology raises important questions regarding its societal impact and regulatory requirements. As neurotechnologies intersect with various EU legislative and policy initiatives, a comprehensive and integrated approach will be necessary for the EU to establish a legal framework governing these technologies.

Moreover, certain applications of neurotechnology could pose challenges related to fundamental rights, such as concerns about mental surveillance or consent to collection and processing of brain data. The EU will need to identify potential gaps in existing fundamental rights’ protections and address them to ensure neurotechnology advances responsibly. A key element of the EU's approach will be engaging stakeholders and ensuring inclusiveness in discussions on the regulation and application of neurotechnology.

Listen to this Euractiv Hybrid Conference to discuss neurotechnology's rapid evolution and its legal implications in the EU policy-landscape. Questions to be discussed include:

-With the evolution of other technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, the effects of neurotechnologies become even more elusive. How can we anticipate their long-term consequences?
-Do neurotechnologies fit into existing fundamental rights’ protections or do we need new human rights frameworks and rights for the brain?
-How can we ensure equal access to these technologies and address the risk of exacerbated or even new types of inequalities?
-How do we prepare a legislative framework for neurotechnology, with a focus on inclusive and participatory discussions?