Access to Traditional Knowledge, Genetic Resources and the Fair and Equitable Benefits-sharing

Main Article Content

Nunthasak Chotichanadechawong
Somboon Sirisunhirun

Abstract

The objective of this research was to study the scenarios of domestic and international provisions
related to the access and benefit-sharing of traditional knowledge, genetic resources, and the fair and
equitable benefit-sharing of such knowledge, from legal documents, information, implementation reports
and to participate in study visits to related agencies. It has been found that there are limitations
on differences and diversity of primary and secondary laws; and they are related to many agencies, so
they could not be efficiently managed. In the management of Thai traditional knowledge and genetic
resources, the government should support the building of awareness and values. Moreover, the knowledge
about such matter should be promoted so as to lead to fair and equitable benefit-sharing by
creating a cooperating network and mechanism for all relevant agencies, especially the citizen sector, to
exercise their rights, duties and responsibilities in the management of Thai Traditional Knowledge and
genetic resources. They all should be supported to have a sense of ownership as members of society or
community that is the source of such knowledge and genetic resources. Their learning and public
awareness should also be raised about their responsibility and participation in maintaining the balance
between protection, conservation and utilization by using the fair and equitable access and benefitsharing
mechanisms to ensure the sustainability of Thai traditional knowledge and genetic resources.

Article Details

Section
Review Article

References

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