Interfaces of intellectual property rights, perceptions, attitudes, research, and technology transfer in agricultural biotechnology and GMOs: Insights from Ethiopian researchers

Several challenges hinder the adoption of agricultural biotechnologies and GMOs to alleviate food insecurity in developing countries. Intellectual property rights (IPR) in the sector and stakeholders’ perceptions and attitudes towards these technologies are critical issues requiring scrutiny for the widespread adoption of agricultural biotechnology. This study examined the interplay between IPR, perceptions, attitudes, research, and technology transfer in the context of agricultural biotechnology and GMOs from the perspectives of agriculture sector researchers in Ethiopia. Researchers were selected from agricultural research institutes using purposive and snowball sampling techniques. Analysis was made using descriptive statistics and structural equation modeling (SEM) with AMOS 29, SPSS 29, and Microsoft Excel. The result revealed that researchers generally held positive attitudes towards agricultural biotechnology other than GMOs, influenced by perceptions of its application areas, IPR contributions, research output, level of education, and prior experiences with biotech food items other than GMOs. However, attitudes toward GMOs were predominately negative and appeared emotionally driven rather than based on factual considerations, remaining unaffected by IPR, research output, experience, or education. While researchers acknowledged the benefits of agricultural biotechnology, including GMOs, in enhancing yields, pest control, and food security, concerns persisted regarding biodiversity loss, allergenic risks, and impacts on non-target organisms. The study underscores the importance of improving communications, fostering a responsive regulatory framework, and promoting informed attitudes towards agricultural biotechnology and GMOs based on a balanced consideration of their benefits and objectively evaluated risks.