Protecting the Rights of Consumers, Farmers and Gardeners in Relation to the Deregulation of New Genomic Techniques (NGTs)

The adoption of Regulation (EU) 2026/1388 on plants obtained through certain new genomic techniques (NGTs) on 17 June 2026 represents a significant change to the European legal framework governing genetically modified organisms, the food chain, agriculture, seed production, and consumer rights. The Regulation was published on 26 June 2026 and will largely become applicable in July 2028, while certain provisions will already apply from July 2026. The new regulatory framework raises important questions regarding consumers’ right to information and choice, the protection of organic and biodynamic agriculture, the protection of seeds and genetic diversity, biodiversity, the prevention of the unintended
presence of NGT1 plants in the environment, and the application of the precautionary principle. The Biodynamic Association of Slovenia, in cooperation with a broader coalition of civil society organisations,
consumers, farmers, beekeepers, representatives of the organic and biodynamic farming sectors, and other stakeholders, intends to carry out a rapid advocacy response to the new legal situation. The action will focus on actively involving civil society in shaping Slovenia’s response to the new regulatory framework. The planned activities include the development of joint policy and action proposals, structured consultations with public institutions, direct advocacy with decision-makers, and public
communication.

The aim of the action is to ensure that the positions and recommendations of civil society are duly documented and considered by the relevant Slovenian public institutions and incorporated into subsequent political, legal, and implementation processes. The action will directly contribute to greater NGO participation in democratic processes, stronger dialogue between civil society and public institutions, and more inclusive policymaking.

The objective of the action is to ensure that the positions and recommendations of civil society are formally documented and considered by the relevant Slovenian public institutions and incorporated into subsequent political, legal and implementation processes. The action directly contributes to greater participation of NGOs in democratic processes, strengthens dialogue between civil society and public institutions, and promotes more inclusive policymaking.

The action will therefore transform the existing mobilisation of civil society into a structured and documented process of engagement with public decision-makers.

Civil society proposals for Slovenia’s national response to the new NGT regulatory framework will be developed. 1 joint advocacy document will be prepared, with at least 4 NGOs actively participating in its preparation and/or in the development of joint recommendations.

Cooperation between NGOs and public institutions will be strengthened. 2 consultations or public discussions will be organised, with at least 20 participants attending each event, for a total of at least 40 participants. At least 3 civil society proposals will be collected and incorporated.

Public engagement in the debate on the implications of the new NGT regulatory framework will be increased. 1 advocacy and/or awareness-raising campaign will be implemented, including publications, communication materials, media engagement and calls for public support. At least 100 individuals will actively participate in or support the campaign through shares, likes or comments. 1 press conference will also be organised, and at least 3 media items will be published in different media outlets.