Under the Committee Act, it is the responsibility of the committee system on health research ethics to ensure that from a research ethical point of view, health research projects are carried out in a responsible manner, and that the rights, safety and wellbeing of trial subjects participating in such biomedical research projects are protected, while at the same time possibilities are being created for the development of new, valuable knowledge.
The National Committee consists of 13 members appointed by the minister for health and prevention.