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GM Debate Must Not Neglect Developing Countries

December 28, 2003

Launch of Discussion Paper: the use of genetically modified crops in developing countries

There is an ethical obligation to explore the benefits that genetically modified (GM) crops could offer people in developing countries, according to the Nuffield Council on Bioethics. "The possible costs, benefits and risks associated with particular GM crops must be assessed on a case by case basis," said Dr Sandy Thomas, Director of the Nuffield Council.

Dr Thomas was launching a Discussion Paper, The use of genetically modified crops in developing countries, which argues that GM crops could significantly improve agriculture in developing countries but warns against considering GM technology in isolation. "We recommend asking how the use of a GM crop compares to alternatives," continued Dr Thomas. It is essential to focus on the specific situation in a particular country, and to compare all possible options. This comparison should include not only other approaches in agricultural research and practice, but also the potential cost of doing nothing.

The Council held a consultation during summer 2003, and the responses received highlighted the complexity of the debate. While many respondents described the benefits they had experienced from GM crops, others argued that economic, political or social change was more important than new technologies. "We recognise that we are discussing only part of a much larger picture. We do not claim that GM crops will feed the world but we do believe that, in specific cases, they could make a useful contribution to improving the livelihood of poor farmers in developing countries," commented Dr Thomas.

GM crops could be used to address agricultural problems, such as drought and salty soils, where other methods of plant breeding or conventional agriculture have been less successful. GM crops could also address some health problems. For example, Golden Rice, modified to produce ß-carotene, could help to prevent vitamin A deficiency. However, in other situations, the use of a GM crop may be less appropriate. GM herbicide resistant crops may lead to reduced demand for labour, which could hinder the reduction of poverty in developing countries.

Currently, much GM research serves the interests of large-scale farmers in developed countries. The Council recommends that research into GM crops must be directed towards the needs of small-scale farmers in developing countries. The UK Department for International Development, the European Commission and other national governments should commit additional resources to expanding relevant research.

The paper also emphasises the impact of European regulations on GM crops, concluding that the freedom of choice of farmers in developing countries is being severely challenged by EU agricultural policy. Many developing countries do not have the necessary infrastructure to meet strict EU requirements for labelling and traceability of GM crops. Additionally, there is concern that even planting GM crops only for domestic use might jeopardise export markets for non-GM crops.

Nuffield Council on Bioethics