Biotechnology produces important and potentially useful knowledge but on the other hand it may challenge ethical values.

• What is the present status of human stem cell research? Which are the techniques, sources and different types of stem cells presently used?

• Can we use human embryos and aborted foetal tissues for research? If so, under which premises?

• Can we allow manipulation of human tissues for the production of new cells/tissues for transplantation purposes?

• Can these techniques be combined with the somatic cell nuclear transfer techniques?

• Can human cells be patented and commercialised?

• Which are the common Nordic values relevant to these issues and do we need guidelines and legislation to control stem cell research and future applications?