Digital Sequence Information (DSI) is currently the subject of various parallel international negotiation processes with very different actors and regulatory models.  

• Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD):

• • CBD Parties set up a multilateral mechanism for the fair and equitable sharing of benefits from the use of digital sequence information on genetic resources, including a global fund. 
  • This mechanism covers publicly available genetic data and adopts a de-coupled, sector-based approach to benefit-sharing, targeting commercial users and enabling open access. It will be operationalized in the coming years.
  • Find detailed information here!

• The International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (ITPGRFA):

• • The Treaties’ ABS system allows access to the genetic resources of 64 crops and forages used in food and agriculture, with benefit sharing resulting from products made available for further research and breeding or from monetary benefits. 
  • DSI could be included as treaty members decide how to enhance the functioning of their multilateral system.

• The Agreement on the Conservation and   Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) under the UN Convention on the Law of the Seas (UNCLOS):

• • One of the agreement´s main objectives is to ensure the fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from marine genetic resources and digital sequence information of areas beyond national jurisdiction. 
  • It sets up a clearing-house notification system and will establish a financial mechanism and a special fund to distribute benefits. 
  • The agreement contains obligations for researchers at the stages of pre-collection, post collection and on utilization of marine GR and its DSI. 
  • It will enter into force 120 days after ratification by a minimum of 60 countries.
  • More information about the BBNJ Agreement here!

• The WHO´s Pandemic Influenza Preparedness (PIP) Framework and its Pandemic Agreement (CA+):

• • The WHO Pandemic Preparedness CA+ negotiation process was set to attempt to broaden pathogen coverage and include its corresponding DSI.
  • In December 2021, an Intergovernmental Negotiating Body (INB) was created and has conducted many formal meetings and numerous informal discussions to consider the purpose and scope of a new legal instrument to prepare the world for future pandemics. 
  • One of the main considerations in the process will be how to address benefit sharing from the use of DSI of pathogens that could be considered under a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC).