Overview
The seventh session of the Working Group on the Strengthening of the Biological Weapons Convention will take place from 8 to 12 December 2025 in Geneva, Switzerland. The Working Group will be chaired by H.E. Frederico S. Duque Estrada Meyer of Brazil. The Vice-Chairs of the Working Group are H.E. Ambassador Anne Lazar-Sury of France and Mr. Irakli Jgenti of Georgia.
The meeting will convene in the Tempus Building of the Palais des Nations, United Nations Office at Geneva. Sessions will take place from 10:00-13:00 and 15:00-18:00.
Information for Participants
Information on attending the Seventh Session of the Working Group can be found in the aide-memoire (available in English, French and Spanish).Additional documentation, statements and other information will be posted, as they become available, under the "Documents" and "Statements" sections above.
Registration for the meeting is now open.
Officers
Chairperson of the Working Group on the Strengthening of the Biological Weapons Convention
H.E. Mr. Frederico S. Duque Estrada Meyer, Permanent Representative of Brazil to the Conference on Disarmament
Ambassador Frederico Meyer has served at the Brazilian Embassies in Iraq (1980-1983), in the Soviet Union (1985-1989), at the Brazilian Mission to the United Nations and other International Organizations in Geneva (1989-1993 and 1998-2003), in Guyana (1993), in Cuba (1995-1998), at the Mission to the UN in New York (2003-2006). He has been Ambassador to Kazakhstan (cumulative with Kyrgyzstan and Turkmenistan) (2006-2011), Ambassador to Morocco (2011-2015), Alternate Permanent Representative to the UN in New York (2017-2019), Consul General in Guangzhou (2019-2023) and Ambassador to Israel (2023-2024).The Vice-Chairs of the Working Group are H.E. Mrs. Anne Lazar Sury of France and Mr. Irakli Jgenti of Georgia.
Side Events
08
Dec2025
Disinformation in Nonproliferation, Arms Control, and Disarmament Fora: Current Challenges and Emerging Approaches to Build ResilienceOrganizer: Canada and the Global Partnership Against the Spread of Weapons and Materials of Mass Destruction's Counter WMD Disinformation Initiative
Speakers:
Mr. Trevor Smith / Global Affairs Canada
Lucia Mullen / Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security
Dr. Annie Sundelson / Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security
Raymond Gough / Open Nuclear Network
Dr. Filippa Lentzos / King's College London
Further Speakers TBC
Description: Nonproliferation, arms control, and disarmament (NACD) treaties remain vulnerable to disinformation, which erodes confidence in multilateral structures and sows mistrust among States Parties. The Global Partnership’s Counter WMD Disinformation Initiative aims to equip diplomats with the knowledge and resources necessary to build resilience to CBRN disinformation, safeguarding NACD treaties and norms. In this side event, representatives from the Initiative, including delegates from States Parties, will discuss how disinformation typically manifests in NACD fora and provide recent examples of such threats. Members of the Initiative will also present several recently developed tools that diplomats can use to recognize, monitor, and respond to disinformation in these fora.
Speakers:
Mr. Trevor Smith / Global Affairs Canada
Lucia Mullen / Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security
Dr. Annie Sundelson / Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security
Raymond Gough / Open Nuclear Network
Dr. Filippa Lentzos / King's College London
Further Speakers TBC
Description: Nonproliferation, arms control, and disarmament (NACD) treaties remain vulnerable to disinformation, which erodes confidence in multilateral structures and sows mistrust among States Parties. The Global Partnership’s Counter WMD Disinformation Initiative aims to equip diplomats with the knowledge and resources necessary to build resilience to CBRN disinformation, safeguarding NACD treaties and norms. In this side event, representatives from the Initiative, including delegates from States Parties, will discuss how disinformation typically manifests in NACD fora and provide recent examples of such threats. Members of the Initiative will also present several recently developed tools that diplomats can use to recognize, monitor, and respond to disinformation in these fora.
13:15-14:45Room IX
08
Dec2025
Almaty Call for Action 2025: Driving Global Partnership in Strengthening Biosafety and BiosecurityOrganizer: International Science and Technology Center (ISTC)
Speakers:
Mr. Aibolat ABITBEKOV / Deputy Executive Director, ISTC;
Mr. Hendrik VISSER / Senior Program Manager, ISTC;
Mr. Ashot DAVIDYANTS / President, Biosafety Association for Central Asia and the Caucasus (BACAC), Armenia;
Ms. Katharina NIEDERHUT / Head of Programme, German Biosecurity Programme, GIZ, Germany - online speaker;
Ms. Zauresh ZHUMADILOVA / General Director, National Scientific Center for Especially Dangerous Infections, Kazakhstan.
Details can be found here.
Flyer
Speakers:
Mr. Aibolat ABITBEKOV / Deputy Executive Director, ISTC;
Mr. Hendrik VISSER / Senior Program Manager, ISTC;
Mr. Ashot DAVIDYANTS / President, Biosafety Association for Central Asia and the Caucasus (BACAC), Armenia;
Ms. Katharina NIEDERHUT / Head of Programme, German Biosecurity Programme, GIZ, Germany - online speaker;
Ms. Zauresh ZHUMADILOVA / General Director, National Scientific Center for Especially Dangerous Infections, Kazakhstan.
Details can be found here.
Flyer
13:15-14:45Tempus
09
Dec2025
IBBIS Launch of the Global DNA Synthesis MapOrganizer: International Biosecurity and Biosafety Initiative for Science (IBBIS)
Speakers:
Piers Millet, IBBIS
Mayra Ameneiros, IBBIS
Ayelet Berman, ACHS
Peter Babigumira Ahabwe, Uganda National Institute of Public Health
Luisa Prisecaru, Ribbon Bio
Ljupčo Jivan Gjorgjinski, Founder BioResilience
Paul-Enguerrand Fady, The Centre for Long-Term Resilience.
Description: To formally launch IBBIS Global DNA Synthesis Map, and to share key findings that directly inform ongoing international discussions about biosecurity oversight and how to safeguard emerging biotechnologies. The event is designed to offer an evidence-based overview of the current global landscape of DNA synthesis providers, their screening practices, and the national regulatory frameworks governing this sector. By presenting this data on an accessible public website that will be live for the first time at the side event, IBBIS aims to: Support BWC deliberations by providing concrete, up-to-date evidence on how DNA synthesis is managed globally and where critical governance gaps remain. Highlight opportunities for international cooperation to strengthen norms, promote responsible science, and reduce risks of misuse associated with emerging biotechnologies. Showcase global engagement with data gathered across more than 70 countries through multilingual research and stakeholder consultations. Encourage dialogue among States Parties, international organizations, NGOs, and industry to explore practical next steps — including policy alignment, capacity-building, and adoption of voluntary standards to enhance DNA synthesis screening worldwide. Ultimately, the launch seeks to bridge the gap between scientific realities and policy decision-making, offering diplomats and biosecurity professionals a shared evidence base to inform future BWC workstreams and related international efforts on biotechnology governance.
Details can be found here.
Speakers:
Piers Millet, IBBIS
Mayra Ameneiros, IBBIS
Ayelet Berman, ACHS
Peter Babigumira Ahabwe, Uganda National Institute of Public Health
Luisa Prisecaru, Ribbon Bio
Ljupčo Jivan Gjorgjinski, Founder BioResilience
Paul-Enguerrand Fady, The Centre for Long-Term Resilience.
Description: To formally launch IBBIS Global DNA Synthesis Map, and to share key findings that directly inform ongoing international discussions about biosecurity oversight and how to safeguard emerging biotechnologies. The event is designed to offer an evidence-based overview of the current global landscape of DNA synthesis providers, their screening practices, and the national regulatory frameworks governing this sector. By presenting this data on an accessible public website that will be live for the first time at the side event, IBBIS aims to: Support BWC deliberations by providing concrete, up-to-date evidence on how DNA synthesis is managed globally and where critical governance gaps remain. Highlight opportunities for international cooperation to strengthen norms, promote responsible science, and reduce risks of misuse associated with emerging biotechnologies. Showcase global engagement with data gathered across more than 70 countries through multilingual research and stakeholder consultations. Encourage dialogue among States Parties, international organizations, NGOs, and industry to explore practical next steps — including policy alignment, capacity-building, and adoption of voluntary standards to enhance DNA synthesis screening worldwide. Ultimately, the launch seeks to bridge the gap between scientific realities and policy decision-making, offering diplomats and biosecurity professionals a shared evidence base to inform future BWC workstreams and related international efforts on biotechnology governance.
Details can be found here.
9:00-9:45Room IX
09
Dec2025
Implementing Biosecurity Education: The development of a pilot ISBEN up to 2027 Review ConferenceOrganizer: Biological Security Research Center, London Metropolitan University
Speakers:
Professor Lijun Shang / Director of Biological Security Research Center, London Metropolitan University, United Kingdom
Professor Claudio Mafra / President of the Brazilian Society for Biosafety and Bioprotection, Brazil
Professor Jusaku Minari / Center for iPS Cell Research and Application (CiRA), Kyoto University, Japan
Professor Nariyoshi Shinomiya / National Institute of Infectious Diseases and Japan Institute for Health Security, Japan
Ms Kathryn Millett / Research Assistant, Biological Security Research Center, London Metropolitan University, United Kingdom
Ms Olivia Ibbtoson / PhD student and Research Assistant, Biological Security Research Center, London Metropolitan University, United Kingdom
Description:
Since the initiation of a project on building a pilot International Biological Security Education Network in 2023, the Biological Security Research Centre (BSRC) at London Metropolitan University (LMU) has worked according to its strategic plan. The project has nearly finished the first concept stage and is moving on to the second implementation stage with a vision of beginning the scale-up third stage at the time of the 2027 BWC review Conference.
This side event will summarise the IBSEN project achievements to date and highlight the rapid transition of biosecurity education from broad concepts into a dynamic and diverse field of practice encompassing development of biosecurity education materials and innovative means of implementation. This side event will also present several case studies to showcase the activities embedded in the different stages of the IBSEN project. Finally, we will explore how this IBSEN pilot project could support biosecurity education on the strengthening of the BWC and stimulate discussion informing further development of an official International Biological Security Education Network (IBSEN) with all stakeholders.
The event will feature an expert panel followed by a moderated question-and-answer session with the audience.
For any questions, please contact: Professor Lijun Shang l.shang@londonmet.ac.uk
Speakers:
Professor Lijun Shang / Director of Biological Security Research Center, London Metropolitan University, United Kingdom
Professor Claudio Mafra / President of the Brazilian Society for Biosafety and Bioprotection, Brazil
Professor Jusaku Minari / Center for iPS Cell Research and Application (CiRA), Kyoto University, Japan
Professor Nariyoshi Shinomiya / National Institute of Infectious Diseases and Japan Institute for Health Security, Japan
Ms Kathryn Millett / Research Assistant, Biological Security Research Center, London Metropolitan University, United Kingdom
Ms Olivia Ibbtoson / PhD student and Research Assistant, Biological Security Research Center, London Metropolitan University, United Kingdom
Description:
Since the initiation of a project on building a pilot International Biological Security Education Network in 2023, the Biological Security Research Centre (BSRC) at London Metropolitan University (LMU) has worked according to its strategic plan. The project has nearly finished the first concept stage and is moving on to the second implementation stage with a vision of beginning the scale-up third stage at the time of the 2027 BWC review Conference.
This side event will summarise the IBSEN project achievements to date and highlight the rapid transition of biosecurity education from broad concepts into a dynamic and diverse field of practice encompassing development of biosecurity education materials and innovative means of implementation. This side event will also present several case studies to showcase the activities embedded in the different stages of the IBSEN project. Finally, we will explore how this IBSEN pilot project could support biosecurity education on the strengthening of the BWC and stimulate discussion informing further development of an official International Biological Security Education Network (IBSEN) with all stakeholders.
The event will feature an expert panel followed by a moderated question-and-answer session with the audience.
For any questions, please contact: Professor Lijun Shang l.shang@londonmet.ac.uk
9:00-9:45Room V
09
Dec2025
Educational Programs of the Russian Federation under Article X of the BWCOrganizer: The Russian Federation
Speakers:
Mr. Konstantin Vorontsov / Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation
Ms. Marina Makashova / Federal Service for Supervision of Consumer Rights Protection and Human Well-being (Rospotrebnadzor)
Mr. Egor Vasilenko / Federal Service for Veterinary and Phytosanitary Supervision (Rosselkhoznadzor)
Mr. Andrey Komissarov / Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation
Ms. Bayr Bembeeva / Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation
Ms. Liubov Parolina / Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation
Description: Educational Programs conducted by the Russian Federation under Article X of the BWC
Speakers:
Mr. Konstantin Vorontsov / Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation
Ms. Marina Makashova / Federal Service for Supervision of Consumer Rights Protection and Human Well-being (Rospotrebnadzor)
Mr. Egor Vasilenko / Federal Service for Veterinary and Phytosanitary Supervision (Rosselkhoznadzor)
Mr. Andrey Komissarov / Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation
Ms. Bayr Bembeeva / Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation
Ms. Liubov Parolina / Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation
Description: Educational Programs conducted by the Russian Federation under Article X of the BWC
13:15-14:45Room IX
09
Dec2025
Advances in Biosecurity Education and Capacity Building Through Simulation, Networking, Scenarios and Hands-On TrainingOrganizer: Norway, Operation Outbreak Inc, Bioeconomy Information Sharing and Analysis Center (BIO-ISAC), Biological Security Centre at London Metropolitan University
Speakers:
Daniel Feakes, Chief, BWC ISU
Prof. Alessandro Marcello, Scientific Coordinator of BIOGUARD, ICGEB Trieste
Prof. Lijun Shang, Biological Security Centre at London Metropolitan University
Mr. Kian Sani, Operation Outbreak Inc.,
Mrs. Whitney Bowman-Zatzkin, BIO-ISAC
Please note: The Norwegian Ambassador may be added later as a speaker (TBC)
Description:
Recent discussions within the BWC Working Group have also centered on the threats and risks posed by advances in biological sciences. However, it has been emphasized that biosecurity concerns should not hinder the promotion and peaceful applications of these sciences and technologies, which are vital for human and economic development.
The bioeconomy drives the science we need to thrive, from agriculture to human health, including vaccine production. Humanity has placed enormous demands on the success of the bioeconomy, resulting in the need to balance advances in science and technology for a stronger bioeconomy and the requirement to mitigate biological threats associated with them.
Based on the above, this side event, organized within the framework of the Norway-funded project “Advancing biosecurity and biology for peaceful purposes in developing countries”, aims to:
• Demonstrate the importance of biosecurity education to build a better understanding of the nexus between biosecurity and the use of biological agents and toxins for peaceful purposes
• Demonstrate multi-sector collaboration and networking to advance biosecurity education;
• Engage participants in interactive, real-world biological security crisis response;
This side event will feature an interactive biosecurity simulation led by Operation Outbreak, Inc., a new non-profit spin-out of the Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard. During the session, a number of smartphone devices will be provided to attendees pre-loaded with the Operation Outbreak app, which uses Bluetooth to model the transmission of a fictional pathogen. Participants will be challenged to contain the outbreak using QR-code-based countermeasures, such as masks, vaccines, and tests
Speakers:
Daniel Feakes, Chief, BWC ISU
Prof. Alessandro Marcello, Scientific Coordinator of BIOGUARD, ICGEB Trieste
Prof. Lijun Shang, Biological Security Centre at London Metropolitan University
Mr. Kian Sani, Operation Outbreak Inc.,
Mrs. Whitney Bowman-Zatzkin, BIO-ISAC
Please note: The Norwegian Ambassador may be added later as a speaker (TBC)
Description:
Recent discussions within the BWC Working Group have also centered on the threats and risks posed by advances in biological sciences. However, it has been emphasized that biosecurity concerns should not hinder the promotion and peaceful applications of these sciences and technologies, which are vital for human and economic development.
The bioeconomy drives the science we need to thrive, from agriculture to human health, including vaccine production. Humanity has placed enormous demands on the success of the bioeconomy, resulting in the need to balance advances in science and technology for a stronger bioeconomy and the requirement to mitigate biological threats associated with them.
Based on the above, this side event, organized within the framework of the Norway-funded project “Advancing biosecurity and biology for peaceful purposes in developing countries”, aims to:
• Demonstrate the importance of biosecurity education to build a better understanding of the nexus between biosecurity and the use of biological agents and toxins for peaceful purposes
• Demonstrate multi-sector collaboration and networking to advance biosecurity education;
• Engage participants in interactive, real-world biological security crisis response;
This side event will feature an interactive biosecurity simulation led by Operation Outbreak, Inc., a new non-profit spin-out of the Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard. During the session, a number of smartphone devices will be provided to attendees pre-loaded with the Operation Outbreak app, which uses Bluetooth to model the transmission of a fictional pathogen. Participants will be challenged to contain the outbreak using QR-code-based countermeasures, such as masks, vaccines, and tests
13:15-14:45Tempus
10
Dec2025
Strengthening Biosecurity Governance and BWC Implementation Across the Asia-Pacific)Organizer: S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies (RSIS), Nanyang Technological University (NTU), Singapore
Speakers:
Prof. Mely Caballero-Anthony / Professor, RSIS NTU
Ms. Jeselyn / Research Analyst, RSIS NTU
Dr. Filippa Lentzos / Associate Professor, King’s College London
Dr. Kiwako Tanaka / Associate Professor, Toyo Eiwa University
Description :
The panel session will focus on examining the biosecurity landscape in the Asia-Pacific region, with the objective of developing a shared understanding of how biological risks are perceived and managed across different national contexts. Discussions will explore the region’s diverse national risk perceptions, biosecurity frameworks, and ongoing efforts to address biological threats such as emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases, laboratory accidents, dual-use research of concern (DURC), and the potential for deliberate misuse of biological materials. The session will assess existing policies and regulatory measures, identifying both progress and persistent challenges; and the role of ASEAN-led processes and Track II mechanisms such as the Council for Security Cooperation in the Asia-Pacific (CSCAP)-Study Group on Biosecurity in the Asia-Pacific.
Building on this foundation, the second main objective will be to explore the status of advancing Confidence-Building Measures (CBMs) under the Biological Weapons Convention (BWC) in Southeast Asia. Since their inception, BWC CBMs have aimed to foster transparency, trust, and assurance among States Parties by encouraging the exchange of information on relevant biological research, facilities, and national legislation. However, implementation has remained uneven. Many countries continue to face challenges related to awareness, institutional coordination, and technical capacity in meeting their CBM reporting obligations. The session will draw lessons from regional experiences, including those of Southeast Asia, where longstanding traditions of consensus-building, informal dialogue, and cooperative mechanisms have helped build trust and transparency among member states. It will highlight the complementary role of ASEAN’s confidence building measures and institutions, including CSCAP, to BWC’s CBMs, and how the region works together to implement the BWC and CBMs.
Speakers:
Prof. Mely Caballero-Anthony / Professor, RSIS NTU
Ms. Jeselyn / Research Analyst, RSIS NTU
Dr. Filippa Lentzos / Associate Professor, King’s College London
Dr. Kiwako Tanaka / Associate Professor, Toyo Eiwa University
Description :
The panel session will focus on examining the biosecurity landscape in the Asia-Pacific region, with the objective of developing a shared understanding of how biological risks are perceived and managed across different national contexts. Discussions will explore the region’s diverse national risk perceptions, biosecurity frameworks, and ongoing efforts to address biological threats such as emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases, laboratory accidents, dual-use research of concern (DURC), and the potential for deliberate misuse of biological materials. The session will assess existing policies and regulatory measures, identifying both progress and persistent challenges; and the role of ASEAN-led processes and Track II mechanisms such as the Council for Security Cooperation in the Asia-Pacific (CSCAP)-Study Group on Biosecurity in the Asia-Pacific.
Building on this foundation, the second main objective will be to explore the status of advancing Confidence-Building Measures (CBMs) under the Biological Weapons Convention (BWC) in Southeast Asia. Since their inception, BWC CBMs have aimed to foster transparency, trust, and assurance among States Parties by encouraging the exchange of information on relevant biological research, facilities, and national legislation. However, implementation has remained uneven. Many countries continue to face challenges related to awareness, institutional coordination, and technical capacity in meeting their CBM reporting obligations. The session will draw lessons from regional experiences, including those of Southeast Asia, where longstanding traditions of consensus-building, informal dialogue, and cooperative mechanisms have helped build trust and transparency among member states. It will highlight the complementary role of ASEAN’s confidence building measures and institutions, including CSCAP, to BWC’s CBMs, and how the region works together to implement the BWC and CBMs.
9:00-9:45Room IX
10
Dec2025
AIxBio Tools and Biological Weapons: Recent Research on Risks and MitigationsOrganizers: RAND
Speakers:
Dr. Allison Berke / RAND
Dr. Sana Zakaria / RAND Europe
Dr. David Manheim / ALTER
Description: RAND researchers will present the results of four recent projects on an AI-Bio risk index, data-based mitigations for potentially risky AI tool capabilities, and limitations to AI being used to develop bioweapons
Speakers:
Dr. Allison Berke / RAND
Dr. Sana Zakaria / RAND Europe
Dr. David Manheim / ALTER
Description: RAND researchers will present the results of four recent projects on an AI-Bio risk index, data-based mitigations for potentially risky AI tool capabilities, and limitations to AI being used to develop bioweapons
9:00-9:45Tempus
10
Dec2025
African Conference on the Biological Weapons Convention – A Regional Initiative to Strengthen ImplementationOrganizer: UNODA
Speakers:
Sarah Telford, Deputy Permanent Representative of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Irelandto the CD
Briana Olsen, Acting Deputy Permanent Representative of the United States of America to the CD
Remi BACOUILLARD, Political Affairs Officer, UNODA
Sherina SARAN, Counsellor at the Permanent Mission of South Africa to the United Nations in Geneva
Ishagh MOHAMED MOUSSA, President of the National Authority for Radiation Protection, Safety and Nuclear Security of Mauritania
Malingose BANDA, First Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Zambia
Daniel Feakes, Chief BWC ISU, UNODA
Description: On 26-28 November 2025, UNODA, in collaboration with Kenya, organized the first African Conference on the BWC. The purpose of the side event is to discuss the Conference and its outcomes, and how such initiative is contributing the strengthening BWC implementation regionally and globally.
Speakers:
Sarah Telford, Deputy Permanent Representative of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Irelandto the CD
Briana Olsen, Acting Deputy Permanent Representative of the United States of America to the CD
Remi BACOUILLARD, Political Affairs Officer, UNODA
Sherina SARAN, Counsellor at the Permanent Mission of South Africa to the United Nations in Geneva
Ishagh MOHAMED MOUSSA, President of the National Authority for Radiation Protection, Safety and Nuclear Security of Mauritania
Malingose BANDA, First Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Zambia
Daniel Feakes, Chief BWC ISU, UNODA
Description: On 26-28 November 2025, UNODA, in collaboration with Kenya, organized the first African Conference on the BWC. The purpose of the side event is to discuss the Conference and its outcomes, and how such initiative is contributing the strengthening BWC implementation regionally and globally.
13:15-14:45Room IX
10
Dec2025
Poster Exhibition: Perspectives From Emerging Leaders on Strengthening the BWCOrganizer: NTI
Description: Join rising biosecurity leaders as they showcase policy and technical recommendations to strengthen the Biological Weapons Convention amid a complex and evolving threat environment. Next generation representatives from around the world will present ideas focused on the following topics: international cooperation and assistance under Article X, confidence-building, transparency, compliance, verification, and scientific and technological developments relevant to the convention.
Description: Join rising biosecurity leaders as they showcase policy and technical recommendations to strengthen the Biological Weapons Convention amid a complex and evolving threat environment. Next generation representatives from around the world will present ideas focused on the following topics: international cooperation and assistance under Article X, confidence-building, transparency, compliance, verification, and scientific and technological developments relevant to the convention.
13:15-14:45Outside of Tempus
11
Dec2025
AI and the BWCOrganizers: AiXist (Consortium for AI and Existential Risks), METO (Middle East Treaty Organization)
Speakers:
Emad Kiyaei / AiXist & METO
Sharon Dolev / METO
Kolfinna Tómasdóttir / AiXist
Georgii Nikolaev / AiXist
Description: This AiXist & METO side event explores how artificial intelligence is reshaping biological risks and opportunities, and what this means for the Biological Weapons Convention (BWC). It will highlight AI’s dual-use implications in bioscience and its potential to strengthen verification, detection, and transparency under the BWC. The event will also feature the launch of an AI-driven tool for diplomats and researchers that maps global AI-related legislation, treaties, and national biosecurity measures relevant to BWC implementation. Participants will discuss practical ways to integrate AI governance into BWC processes.
Flyer
Speakers:
Emad Kiyaei / AiXist & METO
Sharon Dolev / METO
Kolfinna Tómasdóttir / AiXist
Georgii Nikolaev / AiXist
Description: This AiXist & METO side event explores how artificial intelligence is reshaping biological risks and opportunities, and what this means for the Biological Weapons Convention (BWC). It will highlight AI’s dual-use implications in bioscience and its potential to strengthen verification, detection, and transparency under the BWC. The event will also feature the launch of an AI-driven tool for diplomats and researchers that maps global AI-related legislation, treaties, and national biosecurity measures relevant to BWC implementation. Participants will discuss practical ways to integrate AI governance into BWC processes.
Flyer
9:00-9:45Room IX
11
Dec2025
The BWC at 50: Past, Present, and FutureOrganizer: United States of America
Speakers:
To be confirmed; will provide further detail at a later date
Description: The Biological Weapons Convention’s 50th anniversary year provides a critical opportunity to learn from and build on the past and look ahead to the future. This side event commemorating the BWC’s 50th anniversary will explore the accomplishments of the Convention, lessons learned from the past 50 years of implementation, and the challenges, risks, and opportunities we face in eliminating biological weapons once and for all as we look to the treaty’s next 50 years.
Speakers:
To be confirmed; will provide further detail at a later date
Description: The Biological Weapons Convention’s 50th anniversary year provides a critical opportunity to learn from and build on the past and look ahead to the future. This side event commemorating the BWC’s 50th anniversary will explore the accomplishments of the Convention, lessons learned from the past 50 years of implementation, and the challenges, risks, and opportunities we face in eliminating biological weapons once and for all as we look to the treaty’s next 50 years.
9:00-9:45Tempus
11
Dec2025
Technological Opportunities for the Biological Weapons Prohibitions RegimeOrganizers: SIPRI, UK FCDO
Speakers:
Mr Peter Babigumira Ahabwe, Uganda Ministry of Health
Dr Filippa Lentos, King’s College London
Dr Miranda Smith, SIPRI
Dr Wilfred Wan, SIPRI (moderator)
Additional speakers to be confirmed.
Description: This side event explores ways in which emerging technologies, including AI and DLT, can contribute to the different functionalities of the biological weapons prohibition regime. Drawing on ongoing SIPRI research, including in the area of biological research laboratories, the event presents concrete cases of tech-use, including to benefit the implementation of the BWC. Panelists will also discuss potential technological applications, including in the context of a future BWC verification mechanism.
Speakers:
Mr Peter Babigumira Ahabwe, Uganda Ministry of Health
Dr Filippa Lentos, King’s College London
Dr Miranda Smith, SIPRI
Dr Wilfred Wan, SIPRI (moderator)
Additional speakers to be confirmed.
Description: This side event explores ways in which emerging technologies, including AI and DLT, can contribute to the different functionalities of the biological weapons prohibition regime. Drawing on ongoing SIPRI research, including in the area of biological research laboratories, the event presents concrete cases of tech-use, including to benefit the implementation of the BWC. Panelists will also discuss potential technological applications, including in the context of a future BWC verification mechanism.
13:15-14:45Room IX
11
Dec2025
Cooperation between the Russian Federation and foreign partners in the prevention and control of infectious diseases under Article X of the BWCOrganizer: Russian Federation
Speakers:
Mr. Konstantin Vorontsov / Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation
Mr. Aleksandr Letiushev / Federal Service for Supervision of Consumer Rights Protection and Human Well-being (Rospotrebnadzor)
Ms. Marina Makashova / Federal Service for Supervision of Consumer Rights Protection and Human Well-being (Rospotrebnadzor)
Description: The experience of the Russian Federation in the field of prevention and control of infectious diseases and its application in foreign countries
Speakers:
Mr. Konstantin Vorontsov / Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation
Mr. Aleksandr Letiushev / Federal Service for Supervision of Consumer Rights Protection and Human Well-being (Rospotrebnadzor)
Ms. Marina Makashova / Federal Service for Supervision of Consumer Rights Protection and Human Well-being (Rospotrebnadzor)
Description: The experience of the Russian Federation in the field of prevention and control of infectious diseases and its application in foreign countries
13:15-14:45Tempus
12
Dec2025
Mitigating Risks from AI x Biosecurity & Recommendations for GovernmentsOrganizer: INHR; Co-sponsors: United Services Institute of India, CECIDE, The Tianjin University Center for Biosafety Research and Strategy, and the Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security
Speakers:
Prof. Eric Richardson, INHR President, moderator
Ms. Anita Cicero, Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security
Dr. Weiwen Zhang, Tianjin University Center for Biosafety Research
Lt. General Ravi Panwar, United Services Institute of India
Dr. Chris Meserole, Frontier Model Forum
Description: This side event will launch INHR's Recommendations for Governments on addressing risks at the intersection of artificial intelligence and synthetic biology. International experts have been consulting over the past 18 months to come up with proposed recommendations that address the risks from AI and synthetic biology, including those which could result in creation of biological weapons. The recommendations incorporate viewpoints from biology, technology, diplomacy, law and the military. Panelists in the side event will analyze the risks and recommendations from a range of viewpoints, including organizations that endorse and do not endorse the recommendations. This event is co-sponsored by the United Services Institution of India, CECIDE, the Tianjin University Center for Biosafety Research and Strategy, and the Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security.
More details can be found here.
Flyer
Speakers:
Prof. Eric Richardson, INHR President, moderator
Ms. Anita Cicero, Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security
Dr. Weiwen Zhang, Tianjin University Center for Biosafety Research
Lt. General Ravi Panwar, United Services Institute of India
Dr. Chris Meserole, Frontier Model Forum
Description: This side event will launch INHR's Recommendations for Governments on addressing risks at the intersection of artificial intelligence and synthetic biology. International experts have been consulting over the past 18 months to come up with proposed recommendations that address the risks from AI and synthetic biology, including those which could result in creation of biological weapons. The recommendations incorporate viewpoints from biology, technology, diplomacy, law and the military. Panelists in the side event will analyze the risks and recommendations from a range of viewpoints, including organizations that endorse and do not endorse the recommendations. This event is co-sponsored by the United Services Institution of India, CECIDE, the Tianjin University Center for Biosafety Research and Strategy, and the Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security.
More details can be found here.
Flyer
9:00-9:45Room IX
12
Dec2025
Diverse & Inclusive Engagement to Strengthen the Biological Weapons ConventionOrganizer: UNODA, NTI
Speakers:
M. Régimbal / UNODA
G. Rodríguez / Panama (TBC)
J. Mokgadi / Botswana (TBC)
R. Dalaqua / UNIDIR (TBC)
M. Monaghan / UNODA
G. Essix / NTI
G. Butchello / NTI
S. Borkar / University of Tübingen
K. Connors / Georgetown University
S. Kumar / University of Münster
Description: The Biological Weapons Convention (BWC) remains a cornerstone of international peace and security, but its continued relevance and effectiveness depends on broad, inclusive participation. This side event will feature a panel of women experts, next generation leaders, and Global South representatives who are actively contributing to the BWC’s goals and shaping its future. In addition to the panel, the event will include a presentation from the winners of NTI’s Next Generation for Biosecurity Competition, whose forward-thinking ideas reflect the creativity of a new generation. By convening this discussion, the event aims to elevate underrepresented voices and generate new perspectives that can inform future working papers, national strategies, and inclusive engagement efforts ahead of RevCon10. Refreshments will be provided.
Speakers:
M. Régimbal / UNODA
G. Rodríguez / Panama (TBC)
J. Mokgadi / Botswana (TBC)
R. Dalaqua / UNIDIR (TBC)
M. Monaghan / UNODA
G. Essix / NTI
G. Butchello / NTI
S. Borkar / University of Tübingen
K. Connors / Georgetown University
S. Kumar / University of Münster
Description: The Biological Weapons Convention (BWC) remains a cornerstone of international peace and security, but its continued relevance and effectiveness depends on broad, inclusive participation. This side event will feature a panel of women experts, next generation leaders, and Global South representatives who are actively contributing to the BWC’s goals and shaping its future. In addition to the panel, the event will include a presentation from the winners of NTI’s Next Generation for Biosecurity Competition, whose forward-thinking ideas reflect the creativity of a new generation. By convening this discussion, the event aims to elevate underrepresented voices and generate new perspectives that can inform future working papers, national strategies, and inclusive engagement efforts ahead of RevCon10. Refreshments will be provided.
13:15-14:45Room IX
12
Dec2025
Deterring Biological Weapons & Strengthening the Biological Weapons ConventionOrganizer: Nagasaki University, Japan, Council on Strategic Risks
Speakers:
Ms. Christine Parthemore / Council on Strategic Risks
Dr. Kazuko Hikawa / Nagasaki University
Mr. Christopher East / Council on Strategic Risks
Dr. Jaroslav Krasny / Nagasaki University
Description: In December 2025, the Journal for Peace and Nuclear Disarmament (JPAND) will publish a special issue on deterrence by denial to address biological weapons threats. Leading experts from Nagasaki University and the Council on Strategic Risks, who developed this journal edition, will host a side event discussing its relevance to the Biological Weapons Convention (BWC). Deterrence by denial is a classic defense strategy in which the goal is to offset an adversary’s capabilities by denying them success in achieving their intended military or strategic effects—and it is increasingly being pursued to address biological weapons threats. The panel will showcase examples highlighted in the journal of bio deterrence approaches by nations such as Finland and the United Kingdom, explore how deterrence by denial regarding biological weapons may influence nuclear policy (in particular in the Japan-US bilateral context), and discuss how as nations augment their biological deterrence approaches in this manner, they should consider commensurate transparency and confidence-building efforts to help strengthen the BWC.
Speakers:
Ms. Christine Parthemore / Council on Strategic Risks
Dr. Kazuko Hikawa / Nagasaki University
Mr. Christopher East / Council on Strategic Risks
Dr. Jaroslav Krasny / Nagasaki University
Description: In December 2025, the Journal for Peace and Nuclear Disarmament (JPAND) will publish a special issue on deterrence by denial to address biological weapons threats. Leading experts from Nagasaki University and the Council on Strategic Risks, who developed this journal edition, will host a side event discussing its relevance to the Biological Weapons Convention (BWC). Deterrence by denial is a classic defense strategy in which the goal is to offset an adversary’s capabilities by denying them success in achieving their intended military or strategic effects—and it is increasingly being pursued to address biological weapons threats. The panel will showcase examples highlighted in the journal of bio deterrence approaches by nations such as Finland and the United Kingdom, explore how deterrence by denial regarding biological weapons may influence nuclear policy (in particular in the Japan-US bilateral context), and discuss how as nations augment their biological deterrence approaches in this manner, they should consider commensurate transparency and confidence-building efforts to help strengthen the BWC.
13:15-14:45Room VII
Secretariat
Secretary of the Working Group
Mr. Daniel Feakes
+41 (0)22 917 2230
daniel.feakes@un.org
Deputy Secretary of the Working Group
Mr. Alex Lampalzer
+41 (0)22 917 3676
hermann.lampalzer@un.org
Side event focal point
Ms. Clarissa Rios Rojas
+41 (0)22 917 4408
clarissa.riosrojas@un.org
