Practical guidance in understanding the nuance of benefit sharing and what this means for South African health research ethics committees: Part 1
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Benefit sharing in health research is a complex and contentious topic, raising practical challenges. This article examines preferred terminologies and the roles of various stakeholders at multiple levels, providing critical insights for South African Research Ethics Committees (RECs). It explores the terminological clarity needed in defining ‘benefit’ and ‘benefit sharing’, particularly through the framework suggested by the DS-I Africa Law group. The article highlights significant deficiencies within the National Department of Health Guidelines, which lack specificity in addressing benefit sharing, creating regulatory confusion. Additionally, it analyses the relevance of four South African Acts – the Intellectual Property Rights from Publicly Financed Research and Development Act (IPRA), the Indigenous Knowledge Act (IKA), the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act (NEMBA) and the National Health Act (NHA) – each addressing benefit sharing in varying contexts. These legislative frameworks are discussed to assist RECs in ensuring ethical benefit sharing practices and to clarify the legality and applicability of benefit sharing. In conclusion, this article recommends the implementation of the terminology and differentiation offered here. By offering a foundational understanding, this article aims to support RECs in their critical role of navigating benefit sharing complexities within the South African research landscape.
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