Joint statement : more than 40 organisations demand the publication of detection and identification methods of GMO-NGTs

Today the European Coordination Via Campesina (ECVC) sent, along with more than 40 organisations, a statement demanding the mandatory publication of detection and identification methods of GMOs obtained with new genomic techniques (NGTs). It was addressed to the negotiators of the ongoing trilogue negotiations. 

Ahead of the Agri-fish Council of 23 and 24 June,the signatories of this statement, representing small-scale farmers, plant breeders, beekeepers, the organic and biodynamic sector, as well as organisations defending the environment, citizens’ rights and agrobiodiversity, want to put this question at the fore-front of the debate. 

The development and publication of detection and identification methods and protocols allows to ensure analytical traceability of GMOs obtained by NGT. This is a necessary tool to address the concerns of GMO-free operators and consumers, notably the risk of patent infringement proceedings, including on native seeds and traits ; the risks of accidental contaminations and economic loss for the organic and GMO-free sectors ; and finally the risks linked to potential health and environmental damages appearing post-marketing. This demand echoes the position taken by the Council in February, which considers that analytical methods for detection should be provided by the applicant, including for category 1 NGTs.