A charter for biomedical research ethics in a progressive, caring society.

BACKGROUND: Given that advances in research continuously raise new ethical issues, a multidisciplinary working group of investigators involved in biomedical research has gathered to discuss and compare ethical viewpoints in their daily practice.

METHODS: The working group has drafted a Charter for Ethics in Biomedical Research that encompasses all the steps in the research process, i.e. from the initial idea to analysis and publication of the results.

RESULTS: Based on key principles for ethically responsible research, the Charter may serve as a tool for performing research, discussing research issues and training researchers.

CONCLUSIONS: The Charter should stimulate researchers to think about their responsibility for research in a progressive, caring society.