The Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety is an international agreement that supplements the Convention on Biological Diversity. Its objective is to protect biological diversity from the potential risks posed by living modified organisms resulting from modern biotechnology. The Protocol requires new technologies to be based on the precautionary principle, allowing developing nations to balance public health against economic benefits. The Protocol entered into force on 11 September 2003, after the required number of 50 instruments of ratification/accession/approval/acceptance by countries was reached.

 

Living modified organisms, as defined by the Protocol, are any living organisms that possess a novel combination of genetic material obtained through the use of modern biotechnology. This includes agricultural crops that have been genetically modified for greater productivity or resistance to pests or diseases. The Protocol also covers LMO-FFPs, which are agricultural commodities from genetically modified crops that are intended for direct use as food or feed or for processing.

 

The Biosafety Protocol recognizes the importance of balancing economic benefits and public health with the need to protect biological diversity. Countries that feel there is not enough scientific evidence that a genetically modified product is safe can ban imports of genetically modified organisms, and exporters are required to label shipments containing genetically altered commodities. This provides a framework for countries to make informed decisions about the use and import/export of genetically modified organisms.

 

As of July 2020, the Cartagena Protocol had 173 parties, including 170 United Nations member states, the State of Palestine, Niue, and the European Union. The Protocol has contributed to ensuring an adequate level of protection in the field of the safe transfer, handling, and use of living modified organisms resulting from modern biotechnology. It has also helped to raise public awareness of biosafety issues and encouraged the development of national biosafety frameworks in many countries.

 

In conclusion, the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety is an essential international agreement that aims to protect biological diversity from the potential risks posed by living modified organisms resulting from modern biotechnology. Its adoption has contributed to ensuring an adequate level of protection in the field of the safe transfer, handling, and use of genetically modified organisms, and has helped to raise public awareness of biosafety issues. The Protocol provides a framework for countries to make informed decisions about the use and import/export of genetically modified organisms while balancing economic benefits and public health with the need to protect biological diversity.