Declaration of Helsinki

First passed in 1964, as an evolution of the Nuremberg Code, the world consensus position on ethical principles in biomedical research involving human subjects is the Declaration of Helsinki. Developed by the World Medical Association establishes overall policies, including the requirements for informed consent.

The declaration was last revised in 2000, but, if for no other reason than advancing medical technology, it is constantly being reviewed. In 2000, the "most contentious issues included: