The Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety

The Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety, adopted in 2000 and entered into force in 2003, is a pivotal international agreement crafted to address the increasingly complex challenges arising from the rapid advancements in modern biotechnology. It primarily concerns itself with the safe transfer, handling, and utilisation of living modified organisms (LMOs), which are organisms whose genetic material has been altered in a way that does not occur naturally.

At its core, the Cartagena Protocol acknowledges the potential risks posed by LMOs to biological diversity and human health, recognising the need for comprehensive regulatory frameworks to mitigate these risks. One of its fundamental objectives is to ensure that countries have the necessary tools and mechanisms in place to assess and manage the potential adverse effects of LMOs on the environment and human well-being.

The protocol provides a robust framework for international cooperation and information exchange, emphasising transparency and participation in decision-making processes related to the import, export, and release of LMOs. It promotes the sharing of scientific knowledge and expertise among nations to facilitate informed decision-making regarding biosafety issues.

Central to the Cartagena Protocol is the concept of the Advance Informed Agreement (AIA), which mandates that exporting countries notify importing countries of any proposed shipment of LMOs, providing detailed information about the LMOs and their intended use. Importing countries then have the opportunity to assess the potential risks associated with the LMOs and make informed decisions about whether to accept or refuse the shipment.

The protocol encourages the development of capacity-building initiatives and technical assistance programs to assist developing countries in implementing effective biosafety measures. This support aims to enhance their ability to assess risks, establish regulatory frameworks, and build institutional capacity for the safe handling and use of LMOs.

By fostering international cooperation and promoting the adoption of science-based risk assessment and management procedures, the Cartagena Protocol serves as a crucial instrument for promoting the responsible and sustainable application of modern biotechnology. It represents a significant step towards achieving the overarching goals of protecting biological diversity, safeguarding human health, and promoting the sustainable use of genetic resources in the context of biotechnological innovation.