Regulating the use of genetic resources between international authorities

A large number of stakeholders are involved in the use of and the international transactions with genetic resources. This article explores whether and how the implementation of multilateral agreements on the use of genetic resources has a synergistic or disruptive effect on the international community.

Empirical results indicate that norm diffusion through international institutions plays a legitimising role in international transactions. However, the lack of compatible access and benefit sharing (ABS) legislation in user countries suggests that these norms have little practical political effect.

The authors then point to a high correlation between dominating countries and key economic interests in the global economy of life sciences. These interests exert their authority and power through a different set of institutions. For example, industrialised countries, compelled by strong multinational corporations, have succeeded in advancing their goals for strengthened intellectual property rights (IPR) and patent systems.