March 2014: The Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) has released the report of the Ad hoc Technical Expert Group (AHTEG) on Socioeconomic Considerations regarding decisions on living modified organisms (LMOs) under the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety.

The AHTEG examined materials gathered through online consultations and other means to present a framework that aims to achieve conceptual clarity on socioeconomic considerations by identifying the potential socioeconomic impacts of LMOs in accordance with the Protocol’s scope and objectives.

General principles include: consistency with relevant international obligations and national frameworks and policies; consideration of local, national and regional circumstances, cultural practices, priorities and needs, in particular regarding the value of biodiversity to indigenous and local communities; clarity, transparency and non-discrimination; the need to address human health issues not already addressed in risk assessment; and public participation and consultation.

With regard to methodological considerations, the suggested framework points to a wide array of available approaches to address the complexity of socioeconomic considerations, such as: situational analysis and baseline information; scenario planning; ex-ante/ex-post studies; public consultation and participation modalities; and socioeconomic impact assessment.

The suggested framework also includes factors that affect methodological approaches and other points to consider, including a list of dimensions for classifying socioeconomic considerations, consisting of: economic; social; ecological; cultural, traditional, religious and ethical; and human health-related dimensions.

The AHTEG on Socioeconomic Considerations met from 17-22 February 2014, in Seoul, Republic of Korea. Its suggestions will be further considered by the seventh meeting of the Conference of the Parties serving as the meeting of the Parties to the Protocol (COP-MOP 7) to be held in October 2014. [Publication: Report of the AHTEG on Socioeconomic Considerations] [CBD COP MOP 7]