On 21–22 April, SIPRI actively participated in the Second German National Dialogue Forum on the Biological Weapons Convention. The event was organized by the German Federal Foreign Office and was held in a virtual format.
SIPRI was represented by Kolja Brockmann, Researcher in the Dual-use and Arms Trade Control Programme, who was among the panellists in a session on the topic of ‘Freedom of science and responsible science – how unlimited is or should science be?’. Among other topics, the panellists discussed potential risks of technology convergence and the application of the precautionary principle and a responsible research and innovation approach. The discussion further explored how scientists and research institutions could strengthen personal and institutional responsibility and compliance with export controls.
The virtual event focused on strengthening the Biological Weapons Convention, particularly in dealing with new technologies and scientific developments. It was attended by around 120 experts on the subject from industry, national authorities, research institutes and think tanks.