The tribal specific approach to genetic research and technology 1

Across the globe, government, university, and corporate researchers are undertaking genetic research and developing related biotechnologies. Areas of interest include human genetic research, plant and animal genetic research and agricultural biotechnologies, as well as the development of bioremediation technologies for the cleanup of environmental contaminants. Such research is often controversial, especially amongst indigenous advocacy and other non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that are vocal in their opposition to genetic research. Such organisations are generally dedicated to defending indigenous rights on national and global scales. However, tribal governments and other indigenous decision-making bodies that should be integrally involved in critiques and/or conceptualization of research affecting indigenous peoples and resources have been largely silent in genetics debates. This has hindered analyses that are culturally and politically-specific to affected tribes and groups. This paper argues that the political and cultural priorities of tribes and other indigenous peoples can be better protected if tribal governments, other indigenous decision-making bodies, and those with tribally-specific cultural authority are aided in coming to the fore of genetics debates. As an effective complement to more pan-indigenous advocacy work, NGOs can aid the cause by providing basic education and technical assistance to indigenous peoples as well as organising and co-hosting forums that facilitate tribal-specific cultural analyses of genetic research efforts and technology development