Is “Multifunctionality” a Useful Framework for Plant Breeding? A Critical Analysis of the Institutional Design in Switzerland

Abstract

The concept of multifunctionality as a counterpoint to neoliberal welfare concepts is outlined and applied to the plant-breeding sector. For this purpose, the Swiss branch of a multinational breeding company, a private breeder relying on private donors and the breeding group in the public research station are first portrayed. Three conditions are then developed which would be necessary if breeding by public agents were to be beneficial in attaining the policy objectives of multifunctional agriculture. It is concluded that it is likely that these conditions apply and that there should be competition between private and (subsidized) public breeders, mainly because breeding is always taking decisions for the future.

Keywords:

• crop breeding
• resistance
• biodiversity