La conservation des ressources phytogénétiques : une préoccupation internationale
Abstract
Conservation of plant genetic resources: An international issue
This paper briefly reviews the activities of the organizations dealing with plant genetic resources conservation on the international level, with special reference to the European region. The initiatives of FAO within its Commission on Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture are described, in particular the formulation of an International Understanding and its revision in connexion with the Convention on Biological Diversity, the realization of a Report on the State of the World's Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture and the drafting of a Global Plan of Action. The role of technical coordination played at the global level by IPGRI is also explained, with a brief outline of its objectives. Regarding cooperation within the European region, the European Cooperative Programme on Plant Genetic Resources Networks, ECP/GR, covers the area of crop plants while EUFORGEN deals with forest genetic resources. Information is given on the organization of these programs, both of which are co-ordinated by IPGRI, and on the dialog between the European Commission and co-ordinators on plant genetic resources of member states of the European Union.