Abstract
The Norwegian Nature Diversity Act stipulates that genetic diversity within domesticated species is to be managed so as to contribute to ensuring the resource foundation for the future (§5), reflecting Norway's commitments under the CBD and the ITPGRFA. However, the EEA Agreement may complicate realization: EU regulations on variety release, seed marketing and conservation varieties prohibit the distribution of seeds among farmers, allowing only the marketing of seeds of varieties from authorized seed shops that comply with strict criteria. This seriously limits farmers' possibilities to conserve and sustainably use crop genetic diversity. Although Norway has chosen a less restrictive path, there is still a long way to go before the inconsistencies are resolved and Norwegian policy can promote the conservation and sustainable use of crop genetic resources. The project is designed to identify the actions and regulations required to resolve existing inconsistencies. Matches and mismatches between EU directives, CBD and ITPGRFA will be identified, and the findings explained by analysing driving forces, interests, power sources, and strategies. We apply a theoretical framework that includes instrumental, structural and discursive power concepts. The effects on regulations and management practice in Norway are assessed. Finally, we identify the room of manoeuvre for Norway, and options for the EU. The project builds on political science and law, and includes plant sciences from other Norwegian institutions in an advisory reference group. It will be carried out in close collaboration with the EU project SOLIBAM, which studies these issues from a complementary angle. This is a unique chance to draw on the experience of our 22 SOLIBAM partners, and we expect considerable synergy effects. The project will be carried out in dialogue with users in Norway, the EU, and at the international level and will result in publications for users, scholars and the general public.
Norway