Human Dignity and Assisted Human Reproduction: Bioethical Challenges within the Nigerian Context

Abstract

The question of human dignity is a question of profound significance for human persons. Reproduction also, is a fact of life and assisted human reproduction signifies all those techniques which involve the manipulation of germ cells, as a substitute for natural procedures, with the finality of achieving reproduction. Most of the techniques – “intra-corporeal,” “extra-corporeal” and “micro-assisted-techniques” – developed in assisted human reproduction have emerged as part of the response to the challenges of human infertility. Infertility is a major reproductive health problem in Nigeria, the bulk of the burden of the negative impact of infertility is borne by women. Most techniques of assisted reproduction are available in Nigeria. It is important to have an open bioethical reflection in the country with regard to these techniques and their use. There is virtually no regulation with regard to assisted reproductive technologies in the country, the recommended prospect is that the question of the current “legal vacuum,” needs serious attention.  It is important for us as a society to examine the question of human dignity and assisted human reproduction. The expression “human dignity” remains complex; however, its complexity as an over-arching principle also gives it the profundity which is important in dealing with ethical issues, especially those that touch upon human life, human responsibility and human reproduction.

Keywords: Human dignity, Assisted reproductive technologies, Infertility, Bioethical challenges, Legal vacuum, Human life, Responsibility.