The Independent Science Panel
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Letter to the Government of Thailand 30th August 2004His Excellency Dr. Thaksin Shinawatra 30 August 2004 Your Excellency, Please allow me to address you on behalf of the Independent Science Panel (ISP) on Genetic Modification (GM). The ISP consists of two dozen prominent scientists from seven countries, spanning diverse disciplines, and who are concerned to provide critical scientific information to the global debate over genetic engineered crops, in view of its importance for the future of our food and agriculture. We understand from news reports that you intend to revoke an earlier ban on the commercial use of GM crops in Thailand. We very respectfully request that you reconsider your decision and instead uphold the ban to prevent the release of GM crops in Thailand. In this regard, I am pleased to draw your attention to the ISP's report, The Case for a GM-free Sustainable World, which is an extensive review of the scientific and other evidence on the problems and hazards of GM crops and the manifold benefits of all forms of sustainable agriculture. Based on this, we are calling for a global ban on environmental release of GM crops, to make way for agroecology, organic farming and other forms of sustainable agriculture. I am attaching the Executive Summary of the report. The full report is available for downloading at the ISP website, www.indsp.org It is clear, from the evidence presented in the ISP Report, that there are many unanswered questions on the safety of GM crops. Very few studies have been conducted, particularly as to the effects of GM foods on human health, and the few independent studies that have been carried out raise serious concerns. Research increasingly shows that GM crops can affect the environment and wildlife negatively. The ISP report also presents evidence that many smallholder farmers in developing countries already have the knowledge, experience and innovative spirit that enables them to farm sustainably and productively, without depending on GM crops. Many have already stated their opposition to GM crops, for they carry particular socio-economic risks that could threaten the livelihoods of small farmers. It is imperative that Thai farmers are consulted in any decision regarding GM crops and that sustainable agriculture is supported. Furthermore, there is overwhelming rejection of GM crops in other parts of the world, including in the UK. Last year, its government's national debate on GM which collected responses from about 37,000 people, found that 86 per cent were unhappy with the idea of eating GM food and 91 per cent thought GM had potential negative effects on the environment. This pattern is repeated in Europe and many other countries. We urge you to consider the effects of these reactions, in light of Thailand's significant exports of agricultural produce. Given the scientific uncertainties and the likelihood that once GM crops are released into the environment, transgenic contamination of non-GM crops is inevitable, we respectfully urge you to abide by the Precautionary Principle and not legalise GM crops in Thailand. Yours Sincerely, Dr. Mae-Wan Ho Copies to: Natural Resources and Environment Minister: |
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© 2003 Independent Science Panel