Plant rights

Article Abstract:

Exploitation of natural genetic resources by the biotechnology industry is increasing and some worry that developing nations are selling their rights to their biological resources too quickly and cheaply. The European Parliament will consider legislation in Jun 1997 to provide legal protection for biotechnological products. Nongovernmental organizations oppose the measure because it benefits multinational corporations more than the nations whose resources are taken. As of May 1997, no international agency monitors agreements between countries and industry to ensure equitable deals.

Economic aspects, Biotechnology industry, Biotechnology industries, Political aspects, Developing countries, Patents (International law), Intellectual property

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Phones sans frontiers?

Article Abstract:

Planned development of non-geosynchronous networks of communications satellites by Iridium, Globalstar and ICO-Global will theoretically bring telecommunication services to every person on planet Earth. The service will be initially expensive, but prices are expected to drop sharply as companies compete for market share. Remote regions and developing countries will benefit most from the service, but several Asian nations refused to give telecommunications companies permission to operate such a system locally. They doubt the system will benefit their economies sufficiently.

Planning, Innovations, International aspects, Satellite communications, Satellite communications services industry, Communications satellites, Telecommunication policy, Telecommunications policy

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Counting on aid

Article Abstract:

Eleven aid agencies in the United Kingdom have joined together to lobby the British government to renew overseas development aid. The agencies are building their case around the national self-interest of the UK government. According to reports, the British government, the world's sixth largest donor, has cut its official aid budget every year since 1979.

Administration of General Economic Programs, Foreign Economic & Financial Assistance, United Kingdom, Finance, Political activity, Social policy, Economic assistance, Foreign economic assistance, Nonprofit organizations, Quotations, Faulks, George, Howell, David, Redesdale, Rupert, Omara, Augustine

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