Beyond Economic Considerations : (Re)Conceptualizing Geographical Indications for Protecting Traditional Agricultural Products

This article aims to expand on existing justifications for geographical indications (GIs) protection in a way that combines the economic and cultural dimensions of GIs-based proprietary claims in protecting traditional knowledge related resources. Conceptualized as tools for cultural protection in the economic milieu, it is argued that GIs can be seen as instruments that respond to challenges that indigenous and local communities face in agricultural production. These challenges include the loss of biological diversity, the challenges to food security and the threat of cultural homogenization. The article demonstrates the need for broader conceptualization of the role of GIs as instruments to pursue the goals of biodiversity, food security, and cultural identity