Work

Designing Robust Ukrainian GMO laws for Post-War Recovery: Facilitation of International Trade and the Bioeconomy

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This article explores the development of Ukraine’s legal framework on genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in the context of European Union integration and post-war recovery. It analyses key regulatory challenges, including outdated biosafety laws, insufficient enforcement mechanisms and gaps in GMO detection and co-existence frameworks. Focus is placed on the 2023 Ukrainian GMO Law, which aligns with EU standards but is subject to delayed implementation. The article examines the legal tension between the EU’s interpretation of the precautionary principle in GMO law and Ukraine’s WTO obligations, highlighting the need for balanced, science-based regulation. In light of wartime agricultural disruption, the article argues that a robust, science-based GMO regulatory regime is essential for ensuring biosafety, facilitating market access and enabling the development of a resilient bioeconomy. GMO reform is thus positioned as a strategic necessity for Ukraine’s legal modernisation, economic recovery and long-term integration into the European and global systems.

Source: European Journal of Risk Regulation

DOI: 10.1017/err.2025.10073

Authors: Dmytro Fedchyshyn, Iryna Ignatenko, Kai Purnhagen

Institutions: Zaporizhzhia National University, University of Bayreuth, Yaroslav Mudryi National Law University

Language: English

Topic: Genetically Modified Organisms Research

Subfield: Plant Science

Field: Agricultural and Biological Sciences

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Peace, justice, and strong institutions

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,550