Bioterrorism and Global Politics: Strengthening International Law for Emerging Biological Threats

Abstract

Bioterrorism has re-emerged as a critical global security challenge amid rapid advances in biotechnology, artificial intelligence, and synthetic biology, compounded by geopolitical fragmentation and lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic. This paper examines the historical evolution of biological warfare, tracing its progression from ancient and medieval practices to highly industrialized state-sponsored programs of the twentieth century. It further analyzes how contemporary dual-use technologies, particularly CRISPR-Cas systems and AI-enabled biological design, have lowered barriers to misuse by both state and non-state actors. The study critically evaluates existing international legal instruments, with particular emphasis on the Biological Weapons Convention (BWC), highlighting persistent deficiencies such as the absence of verification mechanisms, limited institutional capacity, and uneven implementation. Recent legal and policy developments, including amendments to the International Health Regulations, regional initiatives by African States Parties, and proposals for an International Agency for Biological Safety, are assessed for their potential to modernize global biosecurity governance. The paper argues that effective prevention of emerging biological threats requires an integrated, data-driven, and multilateral approach that balances security, scientific innovation, and equitable access to biotechnology. Strengthening international law through institutional reform, responsible innovation, and enhanced cooperation is essential to address the evolving nature of bioterrorism in the twenty-first century.