50 Years of the Biological Weapons Convention - Past, Present and Future

Marking the 50th anniversary of the Biological Weapons Convention (BWC), this book collects contributions by leading scholars and practitioners to assess the legacy, current challenges, and future trajectory of one of the cornerstone treaties in arms control and disarmament. As the first multilateral treaty to ban an entire class of weapons, the BWC has played a central role in shaping international norms against the hostile use of biology. Yet, half a century later, questions about its effectiveness, enforcement and evolution remain.

This volume offers an examination of the BWC’s development, from its Cold War origins to its modern-day relevance in a world marked by rapid advances in biotechnology, increasing geopolitical tensions, and emerging biological threats. The contributions reflect on the treaty’s history, assess its institutional and normative strengths and shortcomings, and engage with contemporary points of contention, including dual-use research and verification.

Looking forward, the volume discusses possible pathways for strengthening the BWC, exploring new mechanisms for compliance, transparency and international cooperation. It also addresses the importance of bridging the gaps between scientific innovation, policy development and security governance.

Intended for both academic audiences and policy practitioners, 50 Years of the Biological Weapons Convention provides critical insights and forward-looking perspectives on the enduring relevance of the BWC. Whether read as a historical retrospective or a call to action for the future of biological disarmament, this collection offers an essential resource for those committed to understanding and enhancing global biosecurity in an increasingly complex world.

Barry de Vries is a Postdoctoral Research Fellow, while Kristoffer Burck and Sannimari Veini are Research Assistants; all three editors work in the Chair for Public Law and International Law Department of the Justus-Liebig University Giessen in Giessen, Hessen, Germany.

Specific to this book:

1. Comprehensive Scope: Past, Present, and Future: The book provides historical analysis, discussions of current challenges, and an outlook on future challenges, making it a reference for understanding the full breadth of the BWC and its potential evolution in response to emerging biotechnological and geopolitical trends.
2. Policy-Relevant and Academically Rigorous: Designed to inform both scholarly and practical policy debates, the volume serves as a valuable resource for academics, civil servants, diplomats, and global health professionals seeking to understand biological disarmament and biosecurity governance in light of the BWC.
3. Interdisciplinary, Expert Perspectives: Featuring contributions from a diverse group of internationally recognized scholars and practitioners, the volume offers insights that bridge science, international law, security studies, and policy—providing interdisciplinary insights into the Biological Weapons Convention’s impact and relevance.