The concept of communicating, controlling a computer, or moving a robotic limb through thought seems like science fiction, even magic. However, it’s not only possible but is already transforming the lives of severely disabled patients.
In 2024, during a UN conference in Geneva, a young Portuguese man with “locked-in syndrome” – a neurological disorder leaving him unable to move any part of his body – was able to “speak” using a brain-computer interface (BCI) that translated his thoughts into words. This is a remarkable example of the advancing field of neurotechnology, offering hope for individuals with disabilities and mental disorders like Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy, and treatment-resistant depression.
Nevertheless, while medical neurotechnology is heavily regulated, concerns arise about its use in other sectors. Devices such as headbands, watches, and headphones that track health indicators are gaining popularity, providing insights into our private thoughts, emotions, and reactions to enhance quality of life. This raises ethical and human rights concerns, as manufacturers are free to sell or transfer this data without restriction, potentially compromising personal mental privacy and exposing, monetizing, or controlling thoughts.
Dafna Feinholz, interim head of research, ethics, and inclusion at UNESCO, expresses concern about the erosion of mental privacy in the age of social media, where users willingly share their personal lives on platforms owned by a few tech giants. She notes that people fail to recognize what they are revealing. Assistive technologies allow individuals to perform tasks using brain waves, and as AI profiles people, the ability to access thoughts, measure brain activity, and infer mental states becomes a possibility. These technologies might even alter the nervous system’s structure, and Feinholz insists that people must know these tools are safe and can be discontinued if desired.
The UN official emphasizes the necessity of staying in control of technology. “We have to manage what they do and what we want them to do, as we are the ones creating them. It’s our responsibility for all the technology we produce.”
From Samarkand, an ancient Uzbek city, Feinholz spoke to UN News as UNESCO member state delegates officially adopted a “Recommendation” on the ethics of neurotechnology. This guidance focuses on protecting human dignity, rights, and freedoms, promoting well-being, and preventing harm related to technology, ensuring freedom of thought, and maintaining ethical standards among developers, researchers, and users who should be held accountable.
Member States are encouraged to establish legal and ethical frameworks for monitoring neurotechnologies, safeguarding personal data, and assessing impacts on human rights and privacy. Feinholz highlights the need for transparency, redress, and compensation similar to other industries. For instance, if a restaurant meal makes you sick, you can complain to the owner, demonstrating accountability. The same principle should apply to neurotechnology: a clear chain of responsibility is essential even if the workings aren’t fully understood.
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