Genetically Modified Organisms in Developing Countries : Risk Analysis and Governance

Bringing together the ideas of experts from around the world, this incisive text offers cutting-edge perspectives on the risk analysis and governance of genetically modified organisms (GMOs), supporting effective and informed decision-making in developing countries. Comprised of four comprehensive sections, this book covers: integrated risk analysis and decision making, giving an overview of the science involved and examining risk analysis methods that impact decision-making on the release of GMOs, particularly in developing countries; diversification of expertise involved in risk analysis and practical ways in which the lack of expertise in developing countries can be overcome; risk analysis based regulatory systems and how they can be undermined by power relationships and socio-political interests, as well as strategies for improving GMO policy development and regulatory decision-making; and case studies from developing countries providing lessons based on real-world experience that can inform our current thinking.

Ademola A. Adenle has over sixteen years of research and international experience, and was a research fellow and principal investigator at the United Nations University (UNU), Japan, where he coordinated the largest and most comprehensive study in the history of genetically modified (GM) agriculture in Africa, revealing a diverse range of challenges impeding the development of effective biosafety regulatory frameworks across the continent. Further to this research work, he specializes in science and technology policy addressing sustainable development challenges and uses his background in applied science to study social aspects of science and technology in agricultural development, biodiversity conservation, renewable energy, climate change adaptation and mitigation, and health innovation in developing countries.

E. Jane Morris is the former director of the African Centre for Gene Technologies and now an independent bioscience consultant, with over tweny-five years' experience working in the biotechnology field in Africa. As chair of the South African advisory committee on genetic modification before the introduction of the GMO Act, she was instrumental in the introduction of GMO legislation in that country. She has a fellowship at the University of Leeds.

Denis J. Murphy is professor of biotechnology at the University of South Wales and advisor to the Food and Agriculture Organization. He has published numerous books and over three hundred research articles on crop biotechnology and related areas.