• Pedigrees of modern varieties for major food crops trace back to local varieties (landraces) developed and conserved by small, subsistence farmers. Until recently, these plant genetic resources (PGRs) were recognized as the common heritage of humankind.

• Modern scientific institutions for crop improvement were established on the same ethos of a common heritage to facilitate access, exchange and improvement of PGRs.
• Changing technologies (Mendelian genetics --> plant breeding; DNA --> biotechnology) and institutions have driven creation of PROPERTY RIGHTS for such previous public goods.

• 'FARMERS RIGHTS' concerns have subsequently emerged, including rights to:
• grow, improve and market local varieties
• access improved plant varieties
• use farm-saved seeds of commercial varieties for planting and exchange
• be compensated for the use of local varieties in the development of new commercial products
• participate in decision making processes involving PGRs
• Balance sought between 'ACCESS' and 'SHARED BENEFITS'