Breeding programs are typically regulated by national and international bodies to ensure safety and ethical standards. Regulations vary by country but generally involve a thorough risk assessment process for any genetically modified organism before it is approved for commercial use. These assessments evaluate potential environmental impacts, food safety, and socio-economic considerations. In addition to governmental regulation, there are also international guidelines and protocols, such as those established by the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety, which aim to ensure the safe handling and transfer of GMOs across borders.