SciDev.Net

Six experts, writing in The New York Times, discuss options for ensuring food security in the face of growing populations and climate change.

CGIAR reforms take research decisions too far away, says Hartmann, director-general of the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA).

Intellectual property must be protected to encourage technical innovations in agriculture, says Javier Fernandez of CropLife Latin America.

Moves to introduce biotechnology to Africa must consider the needs and values of local people, argues socioeconomist Wilhemina Quaye.

Gene banks have a key role to play in the development of climate-proof crops, says agricultural scientist M. S. Swaminathan.

Essential field trials of GM trees are being hindered by anti-GM activists working through the Convention on Biological Diversity, say Steven H. Strauss and colleagues.

A layered and cooperative approach would help Southern African countries harmonise their biosafety laws, says Julius Mugwagwa.

Translating genetics research is easier in agriculture than medicine, says a Nature Genetics editorial, and existing technologies can be used.

Unproven and patented GM fixes will not help farmers in the South adapt to climate change, say Kathy Jo Wetter and Hope Shand.

Ecological engineering could provide better pest control than genetically modified crops, argue Josef Settele and colleagues.

Debates around the potential benefits of GM crops for developing countries must be reasoned and evidence-based, says Albert Weale.

G8 leaders must encourage cooperation in biotechnology to address Africa's food shortages, writes Calestous Juma.

Africa needs a Green Revolution, including local research into genetically engineered crops for small farmers, says Robert Paarlberg.

The UN is inhibiting innovation through over-regulation of new biotechnologies, argues Henry I. Miller.

Africa must be free to explore the potential of agricultural biotechnology without undue European influence, says Jennifer Thomson.

Africa must not let multinational corporations and international donors dictate its biotechnology agenda, says David Fig.

Africa needs harmonised biosafety policies that respect sovereignty and pool resources, says David Wafula.

With the right investment, Africa could get real benefits from growing the latest GM crops, says Idah Sithole-Niang.

Kenya needs public support to force its hand on the benefits and risks of growing genetically modified crops, argues Patricia Kameri-Mbote.

Melissa Leach and Ian Scoones argue that enhanced citizen engagement is essential in making technology work for the poor.