COGEM advice concerning the proposal by the EC to suspend the environmental risk assessment of clinical trials for the treatment or prevention of COVID-19

The COGEM was asked to advise on the European Commission’s proposal to amend the rules on clinical trials with genetically modified organisms (GMOs) intended to treat or prevent COVID-19. The COGEM is a strong proponent of shortening and relaxing procedures as long as human and environmental safety is not put at risk, but is of the opinion that a generic setting aside of the GMO legislation and the authorisation of GMOs without a prior environmental risk assessment is irresponsible and disproportional.