GRATK Cannabis Embassy delegation: Opening Statement at the Diplomatic Conference

Diplomatic Conference on Genetic Resources and Associated Traditional Knowledge | Agenda item 7 | 14 May 2024 | World Intellectual Property Organization | Geneva | GRATK Cannabis Embassy delegation

Plenary opening statement

Delivered by Paula Graciela Khan, on behalf of the Cannabis Embassy delegation, accredited by FAAAT-Forum Drugs Mediterranean (an accredited Observer at WIPO’s IGC and the GRATK Diplomatic Conference)

Dear Mr. President, Dear Friends from around the world,

We congratulate the President and Vice Chairs on their election, and thank the Secretariat for its work.

In order to promote Harmony with Nature and defend the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities, this Instrument must include:

1) Any disclosure of patents based on Genetic Resources or Associated Traditional Knowledge should prove Free Prior Informed Consent was obtained from the legitimate rights holders.

2) This instrument must mention Indigenous Customary Laws, since they are the only way to ascertain legitimate rights holders.

3) Fair and Equitable Access and Benefit-Sharing must be acknowledged.

4) Digital Sequence Information must be included in the definition of Genetic Resources.

5) Sanctions must include the option of patent revocation for incomplete and inaccurate disclosures.

Mr President,

This Instrument is a historic opportunity to repair ecological relationships harmed by centuries of biopiracy and cultural extermination created by colonialism. We affirm the necessity of peace & respect for human rights for the conservation of genetic resources and traditional knowledge. May this Treaty be rooted in compassion and respect.

Thank you.

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