Legal framework needed to protect traditional knowledge and local resources

Concerns have been raised on the absence of a recognizable legal framework to protect the traditional knowledge and local resources from being exploited or exported for commercial purposes.

SPREP is providing technical support on how Niue can strengthen its legal framework in terms of the protection of transboundary and genetic resources.

The workshop on transboundary resources, access and benefit sharing as part and parcel of the Nagoya Protocol was held at the Niue Golf and Sports Club yesterday, facilitated by Niue’s Environment Department and Ma’asi-Kaisamy.

It was highlighted in the discussions – the absence of a recognizable legal framework protecting the traditional knowledge and local resources from being exploited or exported for commercial purposes.

For Niue’s case, an example by a  participant was that of the exploitation of taro.  Previous years taro shoots had been exported out of Niue without proper legal protection with help having to be sought from outside Niue to agency such as SPC.  

The taro exported is said to be benefiting other Pacific nations.