Biological Weapons - PR to the Conference of Disarmament, Geneva
The Biological and Toxic Weapons Convention (BTWC) entered into force in 1975 and replaced the 1925 Geneva Protocol. It was also the first multilateral treaty banning a whole category of weapons. The Treaty prohibits the development, stockpile, production, transfer, or use of biological agents and toxins as well as the development of weapons, equipment, or delivery systems to disseminate them.
Rapid advances in sciences including convergences with other fields, pave the way for applications of biological technologies that are easier, cheaper, faster, and more accessible. These developments offer opportunities, but may also increase proliferation and security risks. The Netherlands therefore promotes cooperation that is in line with State Parties’ obligations under the BTWC, mindful of the need to strengthen the role of science and technology, and to discuss the robustness of verification measures.
Rapid advances in sciences including convergences with other fields, pave the way for applications of biological technologies that are easier, cheaper, faster, and more accessible. These developments offer opportunities, but may also increase proliferation and security risks. The Netherlands therefore promotes cooperation that is in line with State Parties’ obligations under the BTWC, mindful of the need to strengthen the role of science and technology, and to discuss the robustness of verification measures.