Biopiracy, Bioprospecting, and Resistance: Four Cases in Mexico
Author(s)
Barreda, Andres
Abstract
Mexico is in the world’s top five wealthiest countries in terms of biodiversity, making it a prime target for biopirates. The article discusses four cases of bioprospecting-by-contract in Mexico. Two involve the National Autonomous University of Mexico and counterparts in the United States. Another involves indigenous communities in Chiapas. The final case involves an indigenous organization and the transnational company Novartis. While the cases vary in their specific issues, each stimulated resistance to bioprospecting, contributing to a growing call for a moratorium on bioprospecting contracts in Mexico.
