ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses how the spread of ideas happens across national boundaries in the genetically modified (GM) debate. It is a matter of fact that genetic research began in Europe and the region has greatly contributed to genetics: Charles Darwin, Gregor Mendel, Friedrich Miescher and Archibald Garrod and Francis Crick were the Europeans who laid out the important foundations for contemporary gene research. With regard to transgenic technology, while African farmers may appear to have less knowledge about GM technology than their European counterparts, they are very keen on getting seed varieties that can produce better yields, decrease costs and increase profits. Nepal is another country in the region which is influenced by the Indian activist. Dr Vandana Shiva has participated in the debate on GM crops there and Navdanya has collaborated with a number of Nepalese organisations.
