European Networks in the Regulation of Biotechnologies

Abstract

The article examines the emergence of networks of public administrations in the regulation of biotechnologies. The control of risks to public health and the environment posed by biotechnological products is within the remit of public bodies which rely upon scientific opinions in order to adopt the most appropriate regulatory measures.

By analysing the different science-based networks created in European law, this article argues that this emerging organisational model encourages both independent and peer-reviewed assessments and broad consensus on highly technical and contentious scientific issues. However, the specificities of the internal decision-making of these networks require special scrutiny, and transparency should be promoted in order to foster public accountability of the regulatory regimes in which these networks operate.

Keywords: Accountability, Administrative decision-making, Authorisations, Biotechnology, Crops, EU law, Food safety, Genetically modified organisms, Pharmaceuticals, Regulation

JEL Classification: K32, K23