This joint GFAR-IPGRI publication [...]is part of the GFAR/IPGRI/FAO Initiative on GRFA [Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture]. The case studies and micro-papers contained herein are aimed at facilitating a common understanding of the complex issues ranging from national access legislation to promoting regional/global partnerships; from country of origin and patenting issues to germplasm flow and multilateral access, among others; and at identifying policy options that are available in each case.