Balkan Seed Network is a network founded in 2023 consisted of seed savers, breeders, scientists, farmers, gardeners, associations, organizations, research institutes and educational institutions active in the Balkans.
The purpose of the network is to increase conservation and sustainable use of plant genetic resources in agriculture. Activities aim at stimulating resilient food systems and establishing a paradigm of collaboration, within the rich biodiversity and agricultural heritage of the Balkans.
The goal of the Network is to provide the cooperative framework for members of Network on conservation and sustainable use of plant genetic resources (PGR) and develop initiative to increase conservation and sustainable use of PGR at the member’s’ location.
Exchange information and material (e.g. exchange platforms, common databases, seed savers’ festivals, meetings, webpage).
Cooperation on research programs relevant to the scope of the network(e.g. conducting common trials, identification and characterization of PGR, material origins and levels of evolution, climate change impacts) in national, international regional and European levels.
Provide information on opportunities for training, mentoring and shadowing experiences (training projects, online training courses for farmers, young scientists, food chain stakeholders).Translating science into practice is important.
Strengthen the linkage between ex situ, in situ and on farm conservation of PGR.
Boost participatory and organic breeding and selection for adaptation to low input and organic conditions. GMO’s and NGTs (New Genomic Technologies) in breeding are out of the scope of the network and not promoted. Patents on life also are not accepted.
Promotion of organic agriculture, agroecology and sustainable use of PGR.
Funding from collaborative research programs or donations in national and international levels to support network activities and synergy.
Lobbying for farmers’ seeds and farmers’ rights, working on national level in public consultation and legislation process and raising public awareness in national and European context levels.
Organizing different meetings, seminars, conferences.
Preparing and publishing different publications and other activities in line with the main goal.
