GENETICALLY MODIFIED PRODUCTS IN AGRICULTURE - TECHNICAL, IDEOLOGICAL AND POLITICAL QUESTIONS

Abstract

The use of genetically modified organisms, particularly in agriculture, has prompted a heated debate in Brazil and in the world at large. The government and corporations invest substantial sums of money on research and firms devise marketing strategies to make their product palatable to the society. While Congress postpones decisions on key aspects of legislation, local governments have taken the initiative and are enacting legal norms of their own. Consumer organizations stage protests and scientific forums have had their attention drawn to a problem that has already touched the citizens on the streets. Five years after the Brazilian Biosafety Bill has gone into effect, with the government, the scientific community and the society deeply divided the country still does not have a clear cut policy for the GMO. Against the background of a divided society, the study presents an overview of some of the key issues involved. It critically analyses the chief arguments that have been put forward in favor of the licensing of such products and demonstrates the advantages of strict adherence to the principle of precaution. The study investigates the aspects pertaining to agricultural production, to health, and to the environment. It also focuses on aspects of the present standing legislation and of the bills that have been presented before Congress. Finally, it proposes topics to be taken into account in the shaping up of public policies on the subject.