Course Overview
This course introduces learners to the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture. Adopted in 2001, the treaty provides a legally binding framework for conservation and sustainable use of all plant genetic resources for food and agriculture (PGRFA), balancing the interests of developed and developing countries, as well as a broad range of further stakeholders.
Learning Objectives
- Understand what are the Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture, the main objectives of the International Treaty and its origins;
- Identify the global challenges of crop diversity loss, food security, and climate change; understand the contribution of the International Treaty in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG);
- Discuss conservation and sustainable use of plant genetic resources for food and agriculture; learn about the Toolbox;
- Explain the recognition and protection of Farmer´s Rights in the International Treaty; identify the role of the Inventory of measures and some practical options to promote Farmers’ Rights;
- Describe the Multilateral System of Access and Benefit Sharing; explain the meaning of “facilitated access” and know the number of crops and forages included in the Multilateral System;
- Understand the role of the Benefit-sharing Fund, the provenance of funds and learn about some projects funded under the Benefitsharing Fund;
- Understand the role of the Global Information System, the objective of the Compliance procedures, the main governance structures of the International Treaty and how to become a Contracting Party.