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Description

This commentary is Pt. 2 of the "Artificial Intelligence: A Double-Edged Sword in Support and Subversion of the Biological Weapons Convention" series. This piece analyzes how artificial intelligence (AI) interacts with the Biological Weapons Convention (BWC) in both supportive and potentially adversarial ways. The authors explain that AI can strengthen biodefense by improving detection, biosurveillance, and compliance monitoring of biological threats. For example, AI can integrate large datasets to identify anomalies in genomic sequences or global research activity that indicate misuse. However, the same capabilities can be exploited to develop, conceal, and disseminate biological agents, automate laboratory processes that lower barriers to misuse, or obscure illicit activities within scientific ecosystems. This dual-use nature means AI acts as a “double-edged sword,” offering new defensive tools while also creating novel risks. The article calls for policies and governance that balance innovation with safeguards to uphold the BWC’s objectives.

Document Type

Article

Topic(s)

Biological and Chemical Issues, Arms Control and Nonproliferation, National Security

Publication Date

12-15-2025

Keywords

artificial intelligence, AI and biosecurity, Biological Weapons Convention, BWC compliance, dual-use technology, bio surveillance, detection and attribution, biological threat monitoring, synthetic biology risks, autonomous biogent design, biodefense governance, national security technology, ethical AI oversight

Artificial Intelligence: A Double-Edged Sword in Support and Subversion of the Biological Weapons Convention; Part Two: Implications and Recommendations

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