Abstract

Reference: DANIDA 2002
Title: Assessment of Potentials and Constraints for Development and Use of Plant Biotechnology in Relation to Plant Breeding and Crop Production in Developing Countries
Authors: DANIDA/ Royal Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Publisher: DANIDA, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Copenhagen, Denmark
Publication details: DANIDA Working Paper, 2002, 168p

The potential role of modern plant biotechnology for ensuring sustainable food production and alleviating poverty and malnutrition in developing countries is at present under intense global debate. The debate is multifaceted and comprises elements such as the potential of the technology, intellectual property rights, trade, potential risks, ethical issues, as well as more ideological aspects.

As an important donor within agricultural development, Danida wants to strengthen its knowledge about plant biotechnology in order to be able to act as a qualified partner in discussions concerning possible use of plant biotechnology in the developing countries. For these reasons, Danida commissioned the Danish Institute of Agricultural Sciences to prepare a Working Paper on modern plant biotechnology, addressing not only the technological possibilities but also intellectual property rights, trade, environmental and health related risks, and ethical issues. A working group was established at Danida, comprising Danida staff and external members, to facilitate the study.

The paper outlines 12 principles that it sees as critical in establishing effective cooperation in plant biotechnology between developing and industrial countries. These cover the areas of demand, collaboration, compliance with international and local legislation, focus, commitment, long-term perspective, intellectual property rights, objectives, technology development, planning and monitoring, research and donor coordination, and promotion of strategic alliances. The paper also endorses the strategies for technology transfer in agricultural biotechnology as outlined by the Asian Development Bank in 2001 (ADB 2001), which the authors believe to have wide applicability.

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