Donald L. Winkelmann, Chairman
15 April 1998
Dear Mr. Serageldin,
I have the pleasure of transmitting to you the report of the CGIAR Panel on General Issues in Biotechnology. This report, together with TAC's Commentary on the Panel's findings, responds to the process that began at MTM'97, when the Group decided to create two expert panels under the auspices of TAC to assist the Group in formulating policy on biotechnology and protection for intellectual property, as well as for materials held in trust.
The Panel began its work in September 1997, engaged intensively in electronic exchange of ideas, identified key questions on which it sought views from a wide range of CGIAR stakeholders and others, and held two meetings. The report reflects the diverse opinions derived from broad consultation. As well, TAC solicited comments from a number of outside experts. The report and solicited comments were considered at TAC 74, with one panel member in attendance.
The Panel saw its primary role as assessing the current and future application of molecular genetics and other developments in biotechnology to those aspects of CGIAR work that relate to germplasm improvement.
The Panel's recommendations include a strong role for the CGIAR in genomics, i.e., developing and supplying molecular biological information, pertaining to its key crops, pests, pathogens, and livestock of importance to the poor. As a part of this, the Panel recommends that CGIAR be instrumental in a "Genome Summit", take the lead in an expanded network approach to biotechnological research, and review its in-house expertise in relation to the preceding initiatives and to its broader research mission.
As well, the Panel recommends a policy framework on biosafety and gene deployment, a Center-based "duty of care" committee to support the effort on biosafety, and the creation of a CGIAR Biotechnology Service Unit. The "duty of care" committee, in particular, has several novel aspects, which are treated in the Report.
The Panel concludes that "there are widespread opportunities for the greater involvement of the world scientific community to assist in the application of biotechnology to the needs of developing countries. The CGIAR is in a strong position to act as a catalyst to foster these contributions, while progressively strengthening its own role as a significant user of biotechnology to further the aims of its mission."
TAC welcomes this report from the Panel and is pleased to pass it on to you and to the Group. The Committee thanks the Panel's distinguished members for their valuable contribution to our better understanding of the vital issues in a fast-moving field. I trust that the report will provide you and the Group with information and counsel needed for making the policy decisions confronting the CGIAR.
Sincerely yours,
Donald L. Winkelmann
TAC Chair
Mr. Ismail Serageldin
CGIAR Chair
World Bank
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