14 October 2014: An event organized by the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (ITPGR) during the 41st session of the Committee on World Food Security (CFS 41) discussed how to improve food security and nutrition through the sustainable use of plant genetic resources for food and agriculture (PGRFA) as realized through farmers’ rights.

Providing a forum for discussion with various institutions represented at the CFS, including farmers’ associations, the event showcased recent experiences on PGRFA governance at the national and international levels. Participants highlighted the importance of recognizing traditional agricultural methods, farmers’ need for continued access to seeds, the impact of patents, and the need to reconcile science and traditional knowledge. “The International Treaty is the first international legal instrument to recognize the enormous contribution of local and indigenous communities and farmers towards the conservation and development of plant genetic resources as the basis of food and agriculture production throughout the world,” said Matthew Worrell (Australia), Chair of the upcoming 6th session of the Treaty’s Governing Body. [ITPGR News Release][IISD RS story on CFS 41]