Abstract

Reference: CGIAR 2000a
Title: Agricultural Biotechnology and the Poor.  Proceedings of an International Conference, Washington DC, 21-22 October 1999 
Authors: Persley, G.J. and Lantin, M.M. (eds)
Publisher: Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research, 1818 H Street N.W., Washington, D.C. 20433, USA
Publication details: 2000, 235p

The eradication of poverty and hunger in developing countries represents a major challenge that is dependent on sustainable agricultural productivity and the discerning application of science and technology to ensure the health of people and environments globally. To explore these issues, an international conference was held at the World Bank in Washington, D.C., on October 21-22, 1999. The conference was convened by the CGIAR and the U.S. National Academy of Sciences (NAS).

The objectives of the conference were to broaden awareness of developing countries’ views on issues related to biotechnology, and to contribute to a science-based understanding of the issues and public concerns and how these might be addressed. The conference responded to the pressing need for an open, inclusive, and participatory debate on potential benefits and risks of biotechnology, grounded in scientific evidence, and concerned with the common good. Science-based discussions such as this one are critical in guiding the strategies of the international agricultural research centers of the CGIAR as they mobilize, in collaboration with their partners, cutting-edge science to combat poverty, hunger, and environmental degradation in the world’s developing regions.

The proceedings contain 30 edited chapters covering an overview of the issues, the challenges of addressing food security and poverty in the 21^st century; the experiences of a range of countries in mobilizing science and technology to address these challenges; assessing environmental risks, human health risks and social risks associated with new technologies; ethical issues; the role of pubic and private research; and intellectual property management.  The conference concluded with a session on communication, with some thoughtful insights from media representatives, non-governmental organizations and the private sector on addressing public concerns.

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