Publication

This paper explores national and international efforts to prevent terrorists from acquiring dangerous pathogens and argues for the establishment of a set of global biosecurity standards. The paper discusses the biosecurity challenge, the threat of pathogen diversion, US legislation, the international dimension and the establishment of global standards. The paper states that reducing the risk of a bioterrorist attack is as important as improving disease surveillance and medical countermeasures. It argues that the lack of uniform global standards for laboratory security gives rise to gaps and vulnerabilities.