However, the arguments put forth by the Federal Council are hard to comprehend. The Council argues that new methods of genetic engineering would interfere with a plant’s genome in a manner that would not occur under natural conditions, through crossbreeding or natural recombination. It fails to recognize that most of these new applications create products that could just as easily result from a spontaneous mutation or natural recombination. Furthermore, Switzerland has already approved certain breeding methods that interfere greatly with a plant’s genome. Classical mutagenesis techniques do so much less precisely than modern technologies. This unequal treatment is unacceptable.

No negative experiences so far
Moreover, it is wrong to ban an entire type of technology simply because it opens up “extensive possibilities.” It’s time that Switzerland, too, moved to a risk-based approach. Interestingly, this would be possible under the existing Gene Technology Act. In its message, however, the Federal Council argues that there is still “a lack of sufficient data and experience” regarding the products of gene editing, and no “history of safe use.” This is an astounding conclusion, given that this technology is already being used in a variety of agricultural crops, and that gene-edited foods are being grown and consumed today in a number of countries with no negative effects, but instead with enormous health benefits for consumers.

Gene editing is safe
How long does the Federal Council want to wait? Another four years, and then maybe another eight? Long enough for research in this field to move abroad, and for small, local breeding companies to fall hopelessly behind their foreign competitors? The evidence is already clear: The well-known gene editing applications are safe – for humans as well as the environment. It would therefore be a good thing if Parliament, which is considering this bill during the fall session, were to recognize that fact and call for a risk- and product-based approach to regulation. Few deny that gene editing could be especially beneficial in a small country like Switzerland, which has a high level of technological expertise and well educated farmers, or that gene editing would make it easier to translate into practice such often called-for agroecological approaches as mixtures of different varieties and species. It is time for our country to embrace an evidence-based, future-oriented policy regarding genetic engineering, one that allows for innovation in the field, too, and provides opportunities for talented young people to conduct research. Gene editing is happening, with positive effects – if not here, then elsewhere.