A government-backed private network linked to pesticide companies discredited critics, including food writers and UN experts, while downplaying the health risks of pesticides.
In short:
- A US taxpayer-funded private network run by a PR firm has attacked critics of pesticides, including environmentalists and scientists.
- The network profiles critics, shares personal details and attempts to undermine research that shows pesticides cause serious health problems.
- PR campaigns backed by the US government aim to boost support for pesticide and GMO use globally, especially in developing countries.
Key quote:
"They try and shoot the messenger. It is really hard to believe."
— Hilal Elver, UN food security expert
Why this matters:
This investigation reveals a growing distrust in how industry and governments handle pesticide safety, and raises questions about the role taxpayer dollars play in silencing dissent. As these industries push to maintain influence in Africa, Europe and beyond, critics continue to highlight the health and environmental risks tied to chemical-dependent farming.
Read more: If Bayer really wanted to stand with farmers, it would stop selling them toxics.
