Portions of the document were withheld. The report is the latest evidence of the spy agency's interest in radical elements of the anti-globalization movement, which has seen opponents of genetic modification join activists who support animal rights and environmental issues. Genetically modified organisms, or GMOs, are plants or animals whose basic makeup has been altered by humans through manipulation of DNA sequences. Though scientists have long engaged in selective breeding of closely related species, genetic manipulation can help combine species that would ordinarily never become intertwined. For example, scorpion genes have been introduced into certain corn crops.
Advocates argue that such techniques can improve crop quality and yield.
Critics object to genetic engineering out of concern about possible ill effects on health and the environment. There have been numerous peaceful protests about modified foods in recent months, though the spy agency identifies a trend toward violent action. Early last August, a group called Democraseed attacked a plot at the federally run Central Experimental Farm in Ottawa, chopping down and uprooting corn stalks. CSIS says Democraseed thought it was attacking truly genetically modified crops, but actually destroyed a test field used to develop corn that would be resistant to root worm. The spy agency also points out the man charged with pushing a cream pie into Prime Minister Jean Chretien's face last summer in Charlottetown voiced his opposition to genetically modified foods, among other political concerns.