The November 2011 edition of AEFJN's Forum for Action is now online. It contains articles on the ethical responsibility of the Church on the climate issue, on the clean up of the Ogoniland oil spills, which will take decades, on the spread of Libyan arms in the Sahel, on the production of medicines in Africa and on the EU's attempt to force African countries to sign EPAs.
The national election campaign officially started the 28th October in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), exactly one month ahead of historic presidential and legislative elections, scheduled for November 28 2011. 41 humanitarian and human rights organizations, among them AEFJN, have expressed concern about the high political tension and deteriorating security situation. They have called upon all Congolese and international actors involved to take urgent measures to prevent electoral violence, better protect civilians and ensure credible, free and fair elections.Seeds- Why an action ?
AEFJN CFouarge
Because the EU is reviewing its seeds
legislation to the detriment of small farmers.
By the free trade in international seed trade, the European standards of seed legislation is extended to other countries. This occurs particularly in the context of bilateral agreements. The EU is attempting to impose its standards at international level.
The twelve current guidelines should be replaced by a single EU legal framework, the EU Seed Law, that will automatically become law in all member states, thereby eliminating any flexibility in the implementation of EU directive.
The seed industry legally acquire more control over the seed market. Among diverse propositions, the examinations required for registration of new varieties (for several years) may be entrusted to the seed industry or its subsidiaries.
By the free trade in international seed trade, the European standards of seed legislation is extended to other countries. This occurs particularly in the context of bilateral agreements. The EU is attempting to impose its standards at international level.
The twelve current guidelines should be replaced by a single EU legal framework, the EU Seed Law, that will automatically become law in all member states, thereby eliminating any flexibility in the implementation of EU directive.
The seed industry legally acquire more control over the seed market. Among diverse propositions, the examinations required for registration of new varieties (for several years) may be entrusted to the seed industry or its subsidiaries.
More info: http://www.seed-sovereignty.org/EN/index.html
To read and sign petition: http://gaia.org.pt/civicrm/petition/sign?sid=3&lcMessages=en_GB