Enhancing the BWC Through Scientific Communities and Networks of New Actors in the Era of Emerging Science and Technology

Abstract

Over the past 5 decades, the Biological Weapons Convention (BWC) and the broader biosecurity agenda have evolved significantly, shaped by the widespread and rapid development of emerging science and biotechnologies. This evolving landscape demands more inclusive governance mechanisms and has driven scientific communities and networks of nonstate actors to play a crucial role in shaping biosecurity governance, thereby paving the way for a new approach for the BWC in the coming decades. In this commentary, we explore innovative approaches to strengthening global biosecurity governance by emphasizing the role of scientific communities and networks of new actors in enhancing the BWC’s framework. We identify 5 key approaches for advancing biosecurity by analyzing cases we observed: (1) exploring governance strategies and providing early warning for emerging technology risks, (2) promoting biosecurity by design and responsible innovation, (3) capacity building through grassroots networks of new actors, (4) building action networks based on knowledge sharing and collaboration for rapid response to biosecurity risks, and (5) engaging in science diplomacy and bridging governance gaps. Building on the analysis of the linkages between these innovative approaches and the BWC, we seek to offer a forward-looking vision for revitalizing the BWC by incorporating efforts through a well-designed bottom-up mechanism, ensuring a more inclusive, collaborative, and proactive biosecurity governance framework in the coming decades.