Save the seeds: the impact of the disappearance of traditional seeds on the right to adequate food

Abstract

The disappearance of traditional seeds is a direct consequence of the industrialization of agriculture, privatization of the common good, liberalization of the markets, and the rise of intellectual property rights. The extinction of traditional varieties considerably threatens biodiversity, farmers, and consumers, and leave multinationals with unfettered power to influence food production and food consumption habits. This jeopardizes the respect of essential elements of the right to adequate food. Through this paper, I assess the influence of the disappearance of traditional seeds on the right to adequate food. In addition, I explore the alternatives to save these seeds to protect society and nature, and ensure the realization of the right to adequate food for the present and future generations.