This proposal, which aims to temporarily ban these techniques, goes against the findings of the European Food Safety Authority EFSA, which sees no objections to their use. EFSA states that NGTs, such as CRISPR-Cas, are safe and pose no greater risks than traditional breeding techniques.
However, Hungary's proposal is controversial. Several EU member states, including the Netherlands, advocate for easing the current strict regulations surrounding genetically modified organisms (GMOs). They emphasize the benefits of NGTs, such as faster and more efficient development of crops better resistant to diseases and climate change.
Opponents, including Poland and Hungary, remain concerned about the ethical and health effects of genetic modification.
The Hungarian presidency itself is also subject to controversy. Hungary is criticized within the EU over concerns regarding the rule of law and democratic values in the country. These criticisms cast a shadow over their temporary leadership within the EU.
Additionally, European government leaders are currently deliberating over the composition of a new European Commission. These changes could lead to alterations in the current EU agricultural policy. Therefore, it is expected that no major decisions will be made in the coming months regarding the regulation of NGTs.
The division among EU member states and the uncertainty about future policy-making make the path to a unified stance on NGTs complicated. While some countries push for innovation and progress, others remain cautious out of precaution and ethical considerations. The debate over the future of genetic breeding in European agriculture will undoubtedly be a long and challenging one.