Archive · 11 Dec 2025
India's Role in Modernizing Biological Weapons Convention
The Biological Weapons Convention (BWC) is a treaty that bans the use of biological weapons.
It was created in 1975 and has 189 member countries.
The BWC is facing new challenges because of advances in technology and changes in the global security environment.
India, which is a trusted member of the Global South, is well-positioned to help modernize the BWC.
India can use its experience and influence to promote the responsible use of life science technologies and prevent the weaponization of biological research.
The BWC is important for maintaining international peace and security, and India can play a key role in ensuring that the treaty remains effective in the face of new threats.
The Biological Weapons Convention (BWC) is a treaty that bans the development, production, and use of biological weapons, with 189 states parties.
The BWC faces challenges from rapid advances in biotechnology, AI, and geopolitical shifts, which increase dual-use risks and the potential for bioterrorism.
India is uniquely positioned to champion Global South interests in modernizing the BWC due to its credibility, membership in the Australia Group, and understanding of the region's needs.
The BWC lacks a formal verification system, relying instead on Confidence-Building Measures (CBMs) and an Implementation Support Unit for administrative support.
India can lead South-South capacity-building initiatives, promote responsible innovation, and convene regional mechanisms to strengthen the BWC and address dual-use governance.
- Who
- India, Global South, Biological Weapons Convention (BWC) states parties
- What
- Modernization of the BWC to address bioterrorism and dual-use threats
- When
- Present and future, with historical context from the BWC's establishment in 1975
- Where
- Globally, with a focus on India and the Global South
- Why
- To strengthen biosecurity norms, prevent the use of biological weapons, and address the changing bioterror threat landscape
- BWC Establishment
- 26 March 1975
- BWC States Parties
- 189
- India's Australia Group Membership
- 2018
- BWC Review Frequency
- Every five years
- BWC Implementation Support Unit
- Provides administrative support