Genetic science is advancing at an astounding pace: the cost of sequencing an individual genome has dropped dramatically in the last decade. These advances bring both the promise of benefits, as well as new threats to open society. A case in point is the explosive growth of forensic DNA databases across the world, which is taking place with little public debate or oversight. The Governance of Genetic Information Initiative works to protect the basic rights of individuals and vulnerable populations affected by the proliferation of genetic monitoring technologies.
Interventions by the Governance of Genetic Information Initiative will focus on the development of a human rights–compliant standard for the use of DNA by law enforcement.
In 2013, the initiative will support expert NGOs to provide technical assistance to civil society and governments in the South as they set out to develop national laws regulating the use of DNA by law enforcement, as well as supporting capacity-building of civil society in developing and transition countries to engage with these issues. We will continue to support a coalition of NGOs to advocate for the adoption of an international human rights standard for forensic DNA databases.
The Governance of Genetic Information Initiative will consider applications from new partners in line with the above stated priorities. If you are considering applying for funding under this initiative, please send a one-page concept paper to informationprogram.grants@opensocietyfoundations.org. The paper should include the following information:
- A brief description of the project goals and planned activities.
- Information about the applicant organization and project partners.
- An idea of how much your project will cost.
The Governance of Genetic Information Initiative has a full program of work for 2013. We are open to applications for projects from new partners, however please keep in mind that we are able to only fund a limited number of the many applications we receive. We endeavor to respond to applications for funds which meet the criteria specified within two months.