NCJ Number
225122
Date Published
2007
Length
8 pages
Annotation
After describing biological weapons and biological terrorism, this paper examines what we know about bioterrorism, what we fear the most about it, the hidden features of biological weapons and bioterrorism, and what should be done to counter it.
Abstract
Biological weapons consist of a microbial or other biological agent or toxin delivered so as to kill, infect, and strike fear in targeted populations. “Bioterrorism” is defined in this paper as “the deliberate dissemination of biological agents or toxins to cause harm for the purpose of spreading fear or dread in a population, more widespread than the affected target, for a political purpose." Very little is known about bioterrorism activities among terrorist groups. This paper cites the few cases of bioterrorism that are known. Part of the hidden world of biological weapons consists of secret programs being conducted by states. The existence of such state programs raises the risk that state-sponsored terrorist groups could obtain biological agents and/or weapons from state programs. Although what is actually happening in the area of bioterrorism is not known, terrorists still promote the fear that they will use such weapons. State biological weapons programs provide an opportunity for scientists and technical experts to acquire expertise that could be used for malevolent purposes; however, unless dangerous pathogens and toxins are strictly controlled, they are vulnerable to theft by parties intent on using them. States must coordinate their activities in addressing bioterrorism through international cooperation in controlling biological weapons programs sponsored by states, primarily through strengthening the Biological Weapons Convention. 6 references