Blog Do Colombia's Seed Policies Support Farmer-Managed Seed Systems?

by José Luis Urrea-Benítez, Ronnie Vernooy

A new report examines how policies and laws are offering more support for farmer-managed seed systems in Colombia. The analysis reveals a gradual shift towards a more favorable landscape, but also identifies key gaps and challenges that need to be addressed.

In Colombia, as in many parts of the world, a significant portion of farmers' seeds are saved from their own harvests or obtained through informal distribution channels. These farmer-managed seed systems (FMSS) play a crucial role in ensuring food security and conserving agrobiodiversity. However, these systems face challenges from market forces, unfavorable agricultural policies, and the increasing impact of climate change. 

To address these challenges and increase the sustainability of agriculture, there is an urgent need to develop resilient seed systems that support farmers and protect agrobiodiversity. Resilient seed systems should guarantee access to a diverse range of quality seeds, promote efficient and fair seed production and distribution, and recognize and respect the role of farmers as seed custodians. This raises the question: Does Colombia's current policy and legal landscape provide the support needed for resilient seed systems to flourish? 

As part of the CGIAR Initiative on Nature Positive Solutions, researchers from the Alliance examined the evolution of Colombia's policy and legal framework related to seed systems. The study, published in Spanish as 'Políticas, leyes y reglamentos en apoyo de los sistemas de semillas gestionados por los agricultores: el caso de Colombia' evaluates the extent to which national policies and laws support resilient farmer-managed seed systems, using eight dimensions of analysis: 

Eight dimensions evaluated

The study's findings indicate that Colombia's seed policies have evolved over time, with a gradual shift towards a more supportive stance towards FMSS. The most recent initiative (the ICA Draft Resolution on Native and Creole Seeds) is considered the most positive development, with seven of the eight dimensions evaluated favorably. On the other hand, the Law 2285 of 2023 - by which the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (ITPGRFA) is approved, and the Peace Agreement between the Government and the FARC-EP Guerrilla in 2016, complies with six of the dimensions. There is a noticeable difference from 2015 onward in the evolution of positive seed policies in Colombia, according to the dimensions evaluated. 

"The analysis of policies, laws, and regulations related to farmer-managed seed systems in Colombia shows that there has been a gradual evolution towards a more supportive environment for these systems. However, there are still significant gaps and challenges that need to be addressed. The most recent initiative, the ICA Draft Resolution on native and Creole seeds, represents a significant step forward, but it is important to ensure that the perspectives and concerns of seed communities are fully taken into account in the finalization and implementation of this regulation," expressed Ronnie Vernooy, Senior Scientist on Genetic Resources and Seed Policies, and co-author of the study. 

Despite these positive advancements, some challenges remain. One particular concern is the lack of alternative seed registration systems for native and Creole seeds. This gap hinders the recognition and protection of the unique varieties developed and maintained by farmers over generations. The study highlights the need for continued efforts to strengthen Colombia's seed policies in support of resilient FMSS. Key recommendations include: 

  • Formally recognizing and supporting FMSS: Explicitly support FMSS in national policies and strategies;
  • Strengthening legal frameworks: Enhance legal frameworks to protect the rights of farmers over their seeds and knowledge;
  • Promoting seed diversity: Encourage the conservation and use of diverse seed varieties, including native and Creole seeds;
  • Supporting seed exchange networks: Facilitate and support networks for seed exchange and knowledge sharing among farmers; and,
  • Investing in research and development: Invest in research and development to improve seed quality and productivity in FMSS. 

 

Overall, Colombia has made significant progress in developing supportive policies for resilient seed systems. However, continued efforts are needed to address remaining challenges and ensure that FMSS are adequately recognized, protected, and supported. By fostering resilient seed systems, Colombia can protect its agrobiodiversity, enhance food security, and empower farmers as key actors in sustainable agriculture. 

Read the report (available only in Spanish): Políticas, leyes y reglamentos en apoyo de los sistemas de semillas gestionados por los agricultores: El caso de Colombia 

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Acknowledgements

This publication was supported by the CGIAR initiative on Nature Positive Solutions (Nature+). 

Cover photo: Family of farmers on the field. Mural made by Andrés Villota, in Cumbal, Nariño (Colombia). Credit: Bioversity International/R. Vernooy