EU ratifies Cartagena Protocol on biosafety
The European Union ratified the Cartagena Protocol on biosafety, designed to improve worldwide management of GMOs (genetically modified organisms), on 25 June. The protocol is designed to protect biological diversity and human health. It will establish an Advanced Information Agreement (AIA) procedure which ensures countries are given the necessary information to make informed decisions on whether to import GMOs intended for introduction into the environment. The Commission says the EU's ratification of the protocol should be an incentive for other countries to do the same, speeding up its entry into force. Environment Commissioner Margot Wallström said: 'This is a global issue which needs global action. The Cartagena Protocol establishes one set of basic international rules for dealing with GMOs. The protocol will ensure countries, exporters and importers have the necessary information to make informed choices about GMOs.' She said it will particularly help developing countries, which often lack the resources to assess the risks of biotechnology. She added: 'We call on all countries to ratify and implement the Cartagena Protocol and we urge those who are not in a position to ratify to contribute to the achievement of its objectives on a voluntary basis.' The Cartagena Protocol sets out the first international legal framework for the cross-border movement of GMOs on the basis of the 'precautionary principle.' 110 countries have so far signed the protocol and it has been ratified by 20 countries. Fifty ratifications are necessary for it to enter into force.