Examining the Canadian Government's Resistance to Including Socioeconomic Concerns in Genetically Modified Seeds Regulation: A Policy Transfer and Multilevel Approach

Abstract

In 2011, Canadian Members of Parliament refused to transfer a regulatory initiative taken from Argentina that would have required an analysis of potential harm to export markets before authorizing the sale of any new genetically modified seed. This was the purpose of Bill C-474, which was defeated in the House of Commons. After exploring Argentina's regulatory framework as a source of transfer, this paper combines a multilevel analysis with a typology of policy transfer mechanisms in order to address the complexities underlying this unsuccessful attempt. We explore how the mechanisms of competition and coercion might have impeded the transfer of such an initiative at the international and the macro-state levels. Moreover, while a policy transfer network in support of the bill called on previous experiences with genetically modified seeds, their efforts appear to have been outweighed by another network using arguments based on the mechanisms of competition, coercion, and mimicry.

The Regulation of Biotechnology: Ethical, Legal, and Social Implications

“…This reflection on the techno-politics of regulation complements our findings on the need for adaptable legal systems that can keep pace with biotechnological advancements. Moreover, the analysis by Marcoux and Létourneau (2014) on the Canadian government's stance towards socioeconomic concerns in genetically modified seeds regulation provides a valuable lens through which to view our findings on legal frameworks (Marcoux & Létourneau, 2014). Our study extends this conversation, highlighting the nuanced challenges of incorporating ethical and social considerations into legal regulations governing biotechnology.…”

“…Their comparative analysis reveals a spectrum of regulatory responses, from strict precautionary measures to more permissive approaches, underscoring the influence of local contexts and global trends on biotechnology governance (Kleinman et al, 2009). The regulation of genetically modified seeds in Canada, as discussed by Marcoux and Létourneau (2014), further illustrates the challenges of integrating socioeconomic considerations into biotechnology regulation, highlighting the tension between scientific innovation and public welfare (Marcoux & Létourneau, 2014). The social implications of biotechnology extend beyond ethical and legal considerations, encompassing the ways in which biotechnological innovations reshape societal norms, economies, and cultural practices.…”