ANNEX 2 
TERMS OF REFERENCE OF 
THE COMMITTEE ON GENETIC EXPERIMENTATION (COGENE) 
This is the draft constitution of COGENE, as recommended by COGENE to the 
General Committee of ICSU for approval at its meeting in Budapest on 8-9 September 
1977. 
I. PURPOSES AND OBJECTIVES 
COGENE is a Scientific Committee of ICSU, established to serve as a non- 
governmental, interdisciplinary and international council of scientists and as a source 
of advice for the benefit of governments, inter-governmental agencies, scientific 
groups, and individuals, concerning recombinant DNA activities. 
Among its purposes shall be: 
a) to review, evaluate and make available information on the practical and 
scientific benefits, safeguards, containment facilities and other technical matters, 
b) to consider environmental, health-related and other consequences of 
any disposal of biological agents constructed by recombinant DNA techniques, 
c) to foster opportunities for training and international exchange, and 
d) to provide a forum through which interested national, regional and 
other international bodies may communicate. 
COGENE shall also consider, if necessary, other related activities which may give 
rise to public concern. 
II. MEMBERSHIP 
The composition of COGENE shall be as follows: 
a) representatives designated by each international union federated in 
ICSU which desires to participate in the work of the Committee, and 
b) members appointed by the General Assembly to achieve appropriate 
geographical representation and liaison with other bodies active in the field. 
CCGENE may appoint subordinate bodies to assist in discharging its tasks. 
III. FUNCTIONS 
To accomplish its stated purposes and objectives, the Committee shall direct its 
attention especially to the following tasks: 
1. POLICY CONSIDERATIONS 
a) To take note of official actions in relation to recombinant DNA. 
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