The Korowai Framework: assessing GE through tribal values

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Abstract
Despite genetic engineering (GE) being used within the boundaries of the ART Confederation of tribes (Te Āti Awa ki Whakarongotai, Ngāti Raukawa te au ki te tonga and Ngāti Toarangatira), we are disengaged from the development of research programs that involve applications to use GE and we have no formal relationship with applicants. We also lack access to decision-making processes for the use of GE that produces outcomes which truly reflect indigenous tribal values and aspirations. I therefore conducted research to assess genetic engineering through a decision-making framework based on ART Confederation tribal values. A “kaupapa Māori” approach was used in this research to conduct interviews with descendants of the ART Confederation on tribal values and their interpretations of genetic engineering. A specific suite of values associated with ngārara (insects and reptiles) were used to develop the “Korowai Framework” to assess GE. The assessment conducted through the framework determined that GE was significantly limited in its ability to fulfill the ART Confederation tribal values. The Korowai Framework ensures that we can pursue decisions on the use of GE that will fulfill the collective aspirations the ART Confederation has for our people and the environment.

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