Strengthening the Biological Weapons Convention by facilitating science-policy synergies

This initiative stems from the new momentum generated to improve the efficacy and relevance of the Biological Weapons Convention (BWC) in the face of evolving biological threats. The recent BWC Review Conference spotlighted the need for a mechanism to integrate ongoing scientific developments into the Convention's operations. The dual introduction of scientific review and verification mechanisms is poised to revolutionise the BWC's structure, enhancing its responsiveness and enforcement capabilities.

To support these developments, the BWC implementation support unit and the International Science Council will work together to develop, test and validate a methodology for a science-policy interaction between BWC delegates and scientific experts. The aim is to build mutual understanding and enhance trust among these stakeholders. Through joint problem framing, targeted discussions and tailored knowledge products, the project aims to empower delegates with knowledge and tools to anticipate and preemptively address complex challenges posed by contemporary and future biological threats. This science-policy initiative also helps to bridge a critical gap in the BWC’s infrastructure, as it currently lacks a dedicated science advisory board.

Background

The Biological Weapons Convention (BWC), established to prevent the development, , production, stockpiling, acquiring or retaining of biological weapons, has long been a cornerstone of global security. However, despite its significance, the BWC lacks a formal, structured mechanism to review and incorporate developments in science and technology on a systematic basis. The rapid pace of scientific advancements— especially in fields like biotechnology and genetic engineering— necessitates an adaptive framework that ensures policies remain relevant and effective.

At the Ninth BWC Review Conference, the need for such a mechanism was recognized and included in the agenda of a dedicated Working Group focused on strengthening the BWC. This decision opened a critical window of opportunity to reinforce the BWC’s structure, making it more responsive to emerging threats and enhancing its enforcement capabilities.

While creating a formal system to provide scientific and technological advice to BWC delegates would be a major institutional advancement, it is equally essential that diplomats and policymakers are equipped to interpret and apply this knowledge effectively. One of the ongoing challenges is enhancing scientific engagement among policymakers, who may benefit from deeper connections with the scientific community to support effective decision-making. Addressing this gap through targeted efforts, such as capacity-building initiatives and fostering closer collaboration between scientists and policymaker swill ensure that decisions are informed by the latest scientific insights, making the BWC’s efforts more precise, timely, and robust in the face of evolving threats.

Aim

The primary aim of this initiative is to strengthen the BWC by integrating scientific insights into policy discussions, particularly through targeted support to the Friends of the Chair as they develop informed recommendations. This approach focuses on piloting a methodology to foster trust between scientific experts and policymakers, indirectly enhancing scientific literacy through video dissemination, and supporting buy-in for the forthcoming Science & Technology review mechanism.

Impact

The initiative will organise scientific expert advice on three critical areas within the BWC:

1. Science and Technology: Identifying best practices that can be used on future scientific advisory mechanisms to support evidence-informed negotiations.
2. Compliance and Verification: Exploring potential approaches for verification measures related to biological weapons activities and considering avenues for stakeholder engagement.
3. ‍International Cooperation and Assistance: Considering approaches for developing a framework under Article X of the BWC and exploring methods for scientifically assessing ICA project proposals

The ISC Expert Group is poised to make a significant impact by improving the BWC’s effectiveness in addressing biological threats and advancing the culture of science-informed policymaking within delegates and institutions. The ultimate goal is to ensure that the BWC remains a robust framework for global biosecurity.

Key Activities

1. Creation of a Science-policy platform for the Friends of the Chair (FoCs) at BWC. Experts will provide independent scientific advice to the Friends of the Chair under the Working Group on the three topics mentioned above
2. Informative video series for BWC diplomats. Experts, in collaboration with a communications consultant, will produce and disseminate short videos highlighting key insights from their engagements with diplomats. 
3. Interactive in-person expert panel at BWC. A science-policy dialogue will be organised during a side event at the the fifth session of the Working Group on the Strengthening of the Biological Weapons Convention in Geneva in December 2024 to allow experts and delegates to engage in a direct interaction.   
4. Evaluation of the pilot methodology. The project partners will prepare and circulate a report to highlight the key learning of the experience and provide recommendations for further advanced science-policy interface mechanisms within the BWC.