Neurotechnology and Its Impact on Human Rights

Introduction
Neurotechnology represents a new frontier of innovation that communicates with the human brain and nervous system. Capable of understanding or altering our thoughts, emotions, and movements, it acts as a key to unlocking the complexities of the human mind. Yet, this remarkable capability brings profound challenges for human rights. When a device can access the most private part of our being—our brain—questions arise about freedom, privacy, and justice. Will this technology empower humanity, or could it lead to misuse and violations of rights?
The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) published a clear and accessible report(1) in 2025 to demystify this complex topic. Prepared by the Human Rights Council Advisory Committee, the report uses simple language to explain what neurotechnology is, its applications, its effects on human rights, and ways to ensure its responsible use. Its aim is to raise public awareness and guide governments and organizations in safeguarding human rights amid technological advancements.

Key Themes of the Report
1. What is Neurotechnology?
Neurotechnology refers to any technology that interacts with the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). The brain governs thought, emotion, and movement, while the spinal cord relays bodily signals to the brain. Over the past decade, this technology has seen tremendous growth, enabling the study, enhancement, or modification of brain function.

2. Applications of Neurotechnology
• Medical: Treating neurological disorders like Parkinson’s and epilepsy or aiding depression through tools like neuroimaging (to study the brain) and neuromodulation (to alter brain function).
• Scientific Research: Unraveling the brain’s mysteries and improving treatments.
• Commercial: Producing products like headbands to enhance sleep, focus, or athletic performance.
• Military and Judicial: Exploring uses for enhancing soldiers or gathering evidence in legal systems, such as memory retrieval.

3. Types of Neurotechnology
• Invasive: Devices like brain implants and electrodes used in medical treatments, which are effective but risky due to surgical requirements.
• Non-Invasive: Wearable devices (e.g., headbands, watches) placed on the skin, common in both medical and commercial applications.

4. Impact on Human Rights
Neurotechnology can affect the following rights:
• Freedom of Thought: Risks of altering or predicting individuals’ thoughts and behaviors.
• Privacy: Collecting sensitive brain data that could be used for discrimination.
• Health: Supporting neurological patients, but access to costly treatments may be limited.
• Prohibition of Torture: Misuse for behavioral correction could be inhumane.
• Fair Trial: Using brain data as evidence without consent is unjust.

5. Vulnerable Groups
• People with Disabilities: May struggle to give informed consent for technology use.
• Children: Unknown effects on developing brains, with risks from commercial brain-controlled games.
• Older Adults: Benefits for conditions like Parkinson’s, but awareness of risks is essential.

6. Challenges
• Commercial Use: Lack of clear regulations for commercial devices that may harm the brain.
• Workplace: Monitoring employees’ performance via neurotechnology violates privacy.
• Judicial and Military Systems: Improper use could undermine rights.

7. Recommendations
• Human Rights Framework: Countries should develop cohesive policies to regulate neurotechnology.
• Oversight: Conduct human rights impact assessments and impose penalties for violations.
• Education: Raise awareness, especially among vulnerable groups.
• International Cooperation: Organizations like UNESCO and OECD should strengthen global policies.

Conclusion
Neurotechnology is a double-edged sword, capable of transforming lives or endangering human rights. This report, in clear language, demonstrates that through robust laws, careful oversight, and public education, we can harness its potential while preventing abuse. Global cooperation and a commitment to human rights are vital for a secure future in this field.

(1) A-HRC-57-61-EASY-READ-accessible.pdf