Chris Geiger's List: GMOs

• It noted in this connection that international human rights stipulate that everyone has the right to share in the benefits of scientific progress and its applications (Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Article 27).
• The Panel pointed out that biotechnology in its wide sense provides many alternatives to the production of GMOs and that such alternatives should be preferred where there are significant risks or uncertainties at present concerning the use of GMOs, particularly when the expected benefits of the latter are few. Preference should be given to the most appropriate technology
• Here, the precautionary principle should be respected. When there are reasonable grounds for concern, even without complete scientific documentation, countries should be reluctant to introduce a GMO until more knowledge is available.3 With regard to developing countries, there is also a danger arising from the fact that field testing of GMOs is being undertaken in countries that still have little or no policy on GMO releases. GMOs need proper control and appropriate testing. They should not be released without risk analysis and the assurance of subsequent monitoring and risk management, or without accountability for possible harm arising from their use. The Panel underlined that a blanket endorsement should not be granted in the case of GMOs
• It was suggested that GMOs could be compared with nuclear technology in that such technology can be applied for peaceful purposes, although its risks have proved to be real and could be lethal for humankind and the biosphere. Every possible effort should be made to ensure that the risks are avoided.
• Modern biotechnology, even without genetic engineering, makes it possible to breed plants and animals faster and in a more controlled way than before

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