In countries that are represented by elected officials, the government is (supposedly) a representative of the people's voice and should be acting in the best interests of its citizens. If it is the opinion of the people to accept or refuse the use of GM crops, then the government is simply acting in favor of its people. However, in times of starvation or crisis, governments should be looking out for the best interests of their people. If they refuse to encourage GM crops that could potentially be life saving, then they should put forth every effort to find an alternative solution. NOT doing so, would not justify banning GM crops. In other words, if the government is going to refuse what could be an easy solution for ending a country-wide starvation problem, then they should be willing and able to find an alternative that prevents unnecessary deaths such as paying for imported foods or crop relief programs.
Every government has the right to make their own decision about whether or not GM crops should be allowed in their respective countries. However, it is also important that they make the effort to educate themselves on the pro's and con's of GM crops and to inform their citizens as well as they will most likely be the ones growing the crops and consuming the products.
Government vs. GMO's