On 8 July 2026, the European Parliament adopted a resolution objecting to the Commission Implementing Decision (EU) 2026/1443 of 29 June 2026, which authorises the placing on the market of products containing, consisting of, or produced from genetically modified maize DP202216 x NK603 x DAS-40278-9 and its sub-combinations. The resolution, adopted under Parliament's scrutiny powers over the Commission's implementing acts, calls for the repeal of the contested decision, arguing that it exceeds the implementing powers provided for in Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003 and is inconsistent with Union law, particularly the aim of ensuring a high level of protection of human life and health, animal health and welfare, and environmental and consumer interests.
The resolution expresses deep disappointment that the Commission continues to authorise GMOs for import despite its recognition of the need to take sustainability into account. It highlights that the Commission should not authorise GMOs when no qualified majority of Member States is in favour, and calls on the Council to adopt a general approach on amending Regulation (EU) No 182/2011 as a matter of urgency, addressing the persistent democratic deficit in the EU's comitology procedure. The Parliament also urges the Commission to take into account Union obligations under international agreements such as the Paris Climate Agreement, the UN Convention on Biological Diversity, and the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
The resolution reinforces the Parliament's longstanding opposition to Commission authorisations of GMOs in the absence of Member State consensus. It underscores the position that herbicide-tolerant GM crops lead to increased use of complementary herbicides (glyphosate, glufosinate, 2,4-D), with adverse consequences for biodiversity, soil health, water quality, and human and animal health. The resolution further calls on the Commission not to authorise the import of herbicide-tolerant GM crops due to increased risks to biodiversity, food safety, and workers' health.
While non-binding, the resolution exerts political pressure on the Commission and the Council to reassess GMO authorisation practices and to align them with sustainability objectives, the One Health approach, and fair trade standards. The Parliament's objection is the latest in a series of similar moves against Commission GMO authorisations, reflecting a persistent institutional tension over the balance between scientific risk assessment and political accountability in the EU's genetically modified organism policy.