Access to plant genetic resources and the equitable sharing of benefits: A contribution to the debate on systems for the exchange of germplasm

There is a wide spectrum of options for genetic resources exchange systems. The report considers the possible structure of a more formal approach. It presents a flexible multilateral framework - referred to as the Multilateral System for Exchange (MUSE) - that would be governed by mutually agreed rules. MUSE is not an exchange system per se; rather it is the framework for a system, which could accommodate the broad range of options existing between the extremes of purely bilateral arrangements and informal multilateral approaches to exchange. The policy basis for the MUSE framework would be set by general principles established in the CBD. The system would operate according to standard rules governing conditions of membership, terms of access to genetic resources, mechanisms for sharing benefits among participants. and relationships with non-members. The MUSE rules would provide formal clarification - and protection - of the rights and obligations associated with the exchange of PGR under the terms of the CBD and the revised International Undertaking. It is hoped that the IPGRI report will stimulate interest and contribute positively to the on going debate on systems for germplasm exchange.