Developed countries have a responsibility to assist those countries that need extra help. Additionally, I am encouraging FAO and WHO to establish a fund to increase the participation of developing countries in Codex committee meetings, regional committee meetings, and general sessions. This fund will be a product of contributions from governments, food industries, non-profit groups, and other organizations as appropriate. In order to ensure the integrity of the process, contributors will not play a role in selecting country representatives to attend these meetings. For example, individual countries should encourage earlier and broader participation at national Codex meetings by various non-governmental organizations such as consumer and industry groups.
Transparency is extremely important in encouraging participation.
The process of gathering information and developing positions within Codex should be transparent and open. This should be true at the national, regional, and international levels. This can be accomplished in part, I believe, by taking greater advantage of electronic communication technology to increase participation by developing countries and non-governmental organizations. The Internet is a good example of how technology can be used to inform, to solicit feedback, and to promote participation. I believe the Codex committee chairs and regional coordinators have a great responsibility in this area, and I have begun an active dialogue with them to improve efficiency, timeliness and consensus building.