GMO and the Future of Humanity: Scientific Progress vs Ethics

Nowadays, genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are widely used in global food production, medicine, and agriculture, becoming one of the key topics in scientific debates. In this regard, the Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics hosted a debate discussion on "GMOs and the Future of Humanity: Scientific Progress vs Ethics", led by first-year PhD student Tilvaldiyyeva S.V. and third-year students of the "Biotechnology" program.

The event was organized within the framework of United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 12 – "Responsible Consumption and Production". During the debate, participants discussed the following key questions: Can GMO products ensure environmental sustainability and food security? How important is the regulation and control of GMO technologies? How should public awareness and freedom of choice regarding GMOs be ensured? What are the potential long-term environmental and biological impacts of GMOs?

During the discussion, students and faculty members explored the impact of GMOs on the global food system, their effects on human health, and the ethical aspects of their use. The debate allowed participants to gain a deeper understanding of the delicate balance between science and ethics, considering different perspectives.
Participants gained a more profound understanding of the effectiveness and potential risks of GMOs. While reaching a common agreement was challenging, the discussion highlighted the importance of responsible consumption and production, transparency of information, and the necessity of informed societal choices. The event also helped students develop academic debate skills, enabling them to critically assess the balance between scientific progress and ethical constraints.