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International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (ITPGRFA)

The International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (ITPGRFA) is a legally binding international agreement that aims to ensure the conservation, sustainable use, and equitable sharing of plant genetic resources for food and agriculture (PGRFA). It was adopted by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations in 2001 and entered into force in 2004.

The ITPGRFA recognizes the critical role of PGRFA in achieving food security and sustainable agriculture. It acknowledges that these resources are the foundation of global food production and are essential for the development of new crop varieties that can withstand environmental challenges, pests, and diseases.

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The treaty establishes a multilateral system (MLS) for facilitated access to PGRFA and the fair and equitable sharing of benefits derived from their use. It promotes the exchange of information, technology transfer, and capacity-building to enhance the conservation and sustainable use of PGRFA.

Under the ITPGRFA, contracting parties commit to conserving and sustainably using PGRFA, promoting farmers’ rights, and ensuring the fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from the utilization of these resources. It encourages the participation of farmers, indigenous communities, and other stakeholders in decision-making processes related to PGRFA.

The ITPGRFA also addresses issues related to intellectual property rights, recognizing the importance of protecting traditional knowledge and innovations of indigenous and local communities. It establishes a funding mechanism to support the implementation of the treaty’s objectives, particularly in developing countries and countries with economies in transition.

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In summary, the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (ITPGRFA) is a comprehensive international agreement that seeks to safeguard the world’s plant genetic resources, promote sustainable agriculture, and ensure the fair and equitable sharing of benefits derived from their use. It plays a crucial role in supporting global efforts towards achieving food security, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable development.

Keywords: resources, agriculture, itpgrfa, international, treaty, genetic, sustainable, equitable, sharing