Updated

Deutsche Welle published an explainer on biological weapons, which are prohibited under international law but face new risks from biotechnology and artificial intelligence. The report addresses the history of these weapons, the risks posed by recent developments in biotech and AI, and how they are controlled. The feature is a general explainer rather than a report of a new incident or decision. It sets out the key questions about how biological weapons have been developed, what threats emerging technologies may pose, and the mechanisms meant to restrict them.