Biotechnologie für Entwicklungsländer?

The status and impact of new biotechnologies are much in discussion in Switzerland and the rest of the world. The technical, cultural, economical and political complexity of the issues lead to a polarisation of views. In the north-south dialogue and cooperation, questions related to biotechnology are perhaps even more complex than in the north. There are high hopes by many decision makers that biotechnology could enable highly populated countries of the future to produce an adequate food supply. Yet, the socio-political, economic and agro-ecological position of many southern countries make the likely impact of new biotechnologies on equity, trade, and the environment uncertain.

This book, a symposium proceedings,contributes to the larger discussion on the role of biotechnology by bringing together information and views of an interdisciplinary professional group working in the area of research and cooperation with developing countries. Biotechnology is discussed from socio-economical, socio-political, technical, ethical, developmental and legal perspectives. The final chapter provides a synthesis, a conclusion and considers the future. Issues are discussed both from a Swiss and an international perspective in either English, German or French.