Biotechnology has many beneficial applications, but it can also be used, either maliciously (e.g. for the development of bioweapons) or inadvertently, to cause harm. It is therefore a so-called dual-use technology.
For fifty years, the Biological and Toxin Weapons Convention (BWC) has effectively prohibited the development, production, acquisition, transfer, stockpiling, and use of biological and toxin weapons.
During this period, an increasing number of countries have developed significant capacity and expertise in biotechnology research; however, not all have adequate regulatory checks and controls in place.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is another increasingly accessible dual-use technology that can be applied for beneficial purposes, but also for harm.
Because multilateral (United Nations) agreements often lack binding enforcement mechanisms, rely heavily on voluntary compliance, and cannot easily monitor the rapidly evolving global research landscape, they are insufficient on their own to regulate and oversee possible breaches in biotechnology research norms and regulations.
Ultimately, it is up to all of us — through education, training, and a commitment to responsible scientific practices, and the leadership of scientific institutions, such as academies of science — to stand up for what is right and ensure that biological weapons are consigned to history.
