ECLLD participated as an observer in the proceedings of the 19th Regular Session of the CGRFA in Rome.
The Commission on Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (CGRFA) at FAO
The CGRFA is an international forum and intergovernmental body established by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations. The Commission facilitates cooperation and collaboration among member countries to address issues related to the conservation, utilization, and management of genetic resources for food and agriculture, including plants, animals, forests, and microorganisms.
The 19th regular session of the CGRFA at FAO in Rome featured a very dense agenda, encompassing various important topics. These included a session dedicated to farmers’ rights and seed systems, discussions on the third report on the state of the world’s plant genetic resources, a review of the implementation of the Global Action Plan for Plant Genetic Resources, and the establishment of terms of reference for a study on the impact of policies and regulations on farmers’ access to varieties.
The European Coordination at the CGRFA
ECLLD is a collaborative platform that unites more than 20 organizations from 19 European countries, all dedicated to conserving and managing agrobiodiversity through seeds. Our collective mission is to reintroduce diversity into our food system. To achieve this goal, it is crucial to ensure that the perspectives and concerns of farmers, seed savers, NGOs, grassroots organizations, and emerging small enterprises actively engaged in cultivating biodiversity are represented at institutional discussions and decision-making tables. Together, we strive to create a sustainable and resilient food system that values and preserves our diversity.
Matthias Lorimer – ECLLD Secretariat
During the FAO’s main hall event, ECLLD proudly hosted a stand, offering a valuable platform to interact with member states’ representatives and a diverse array of stakeholders attending the CGRFA session throughout the week. This opportunity allowed us to showcase the significant work that ECLLD is undertaking in the field of cultivated biodiversity. We engaged in fruitful discussions, sharing our vision for a more diverse and sustainable food system while emphasizing the importance of preserving and promoting cultivated biodiversity.
ECLLD and the Global Plan of Action for Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture
One of the key topics discussed during the 19th Regular Session was the Global Plan of Action for Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (GPA). This essential document provides essential guidance and strategic direction to countries and organizations for the conservation, sustainable use, and equitable sharing of genetic resources in agriculture.
In this session, the CGRFA reviewed the Second GPA and engaged in discussions regarding the development of the third version of the document, which is set to take place in the coming year.
ECLLD emphasized to the commission the significance of involving Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in the consultation process to contribute to the new plan. It was underscored that CSOs, including local farmers’ organizations, seed networks, Community Seed Banks (CSBs), small and local seed enterprises, and organizations committed to agroecology (both in production and consumption), play a pivotal role. Their valuable contributions are vital in shaping such an important instrument. Ensuring their active participation will lead to a more inclusive and effective plan, reflecting the perspectives of those who are directly involved in the conservation and management of genetic resources for food and agriculture.
The Study on impact
Another significant topic discussed during the 19th Regular Session was the CGRFA’s commissioning of a vital study to assess the impact of seed policies, laws, and regulations on farmers’ access to diverse, locally adapted seed varieties. This research holds added significance as it coincides with the European Commission’s recent proposal for new seed marketing and New Genomic Techniques laws. The insights gained from this study will play a crucial role in shaping seed policies and regulations, not only within Europe but also globally. By understanding the implications of these policies on farmers’ access to diverse seeds, we can work towards more inclusive and sustainable agricultural practices worldwide.
The challenge we face is to develop laws able to strengthen fair and local seed and food systems committed to agroecology for the next 30 years.
Maria Carrascosa
To ensure a comprehensive investigation, ECLLD proposed to the CGRFA that the research must extend beyond desk work, incorporating in-person interviews with farmers, local organizations, seed networks, and other stakeholders involved in agroecology. The aim is to gather opinions and proposals in a language accessible to farmers, capturing their perspectives on complex issues.
ECLLD also suggested to the CGRFA that the study should explore specific questions related to farmers’ access to seed exchange, Community Seed Banks (CSBs), non-registered traditional and local varieties, Participatory Plant Breeding, farmers’ rights, and the impact of laws on small, local seed enterprises specializing in traditional varieties. Additionally, it will examine the influence of Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) laws, misappropriation of traditional varieties, and New Genomic Techniques regulations on farmers’ access to genetic resources for food and agriculture.
Finally, the European Coordination Let’s Liberate Diversity highlighted that, without adequate funding, the study may not fully address the challenges and visions of stakeholders on the ground. A well-funded study, on the other hand, can pave the way for fair and local seed and food systems, fostering sustainable agroecology for the next three decades. By investing in this research, we can better understand the needs of farmers and work towards policies that promote agricultural diversity, resilience, and long-term sustainability.
