Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-002092/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Maria Zacharia (NI)
The contract signed by the Ministry of Health with the American companies RealGenix and Beginnings, granting them the exclusive right to collect, analyse and commercially exploit the genetic material (DNA) of 100 000 newborns over the period 2025–2029, has caused alarm and public outcry in Greece.
The contract was signed in complete violation of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the EU Articles 1, 3 (in particular the free and informed consent of the person, the prohibition on the commercialisation of the human body, the protection of personal self-determination), 7 and 8. It took place without public consultation, any competitive procedure or publication on ‘The Transparency Portal (Diavgeia)’, but with a confidentiality clause, in violation of the principles of transparency, accountability and Directive 2014/24/EU on public procurement.
The Institute of Child Health (ICH) was completely bypassed, while its Scientific Council expressed unanimous opposition, citing serious legal, ethical and scientific issues.
The genetic material of newborns (DNA) is classed as the companies’ exclusive property, while its collection is carried out without the explicit consent of the parents. The agreement also provides for the transfer of the National Newborn Screening Programme from the public to the private sector, without any democratic or scientific control.
In view of the above:
- 1.Is the Commission aware of the agreement and the procedures followed?
- 2.Does it intend to launch an investigation and request the suspension of the agreement?
- 3.Does it intend to establish a common European framework for bioethics and the genetic data of minors?
Submitted: 25.5.2025