Killer Pathogens: The New Threat of Bioweapons?
Biological warfare has long been an unlikely, but serious, national security concern—but has COVID-19 revealed our vulnerability to biological pathogens, bioweapons, and bioterrorism?
About This Event
COVID-19 highlighted advanced societies’ vulnerability to biological pathogens and how those with malign intent could weaponize them. Additionally, the pandemic illuminated the extent to which experiments on deadly pathogens and genetically engineered viruses are conducted. Expert Daniel Feakes explains the risks biological pathogens pose to society and whether bioweapon preparedness should become more of a priority for national security and military operations.
About the Speakers
Daniel Feakes
Chief, BWC Implementation Support Unit, UNODA
Currently the chief of the Biological Weapons Convention Implementation Support Unit at the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA) in Geneva, Feakes formerly served as Strategy and Policy Adviser and as Senior Policy Officer at the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW). He was also the Secretary-General of the Eighth BWC Review Conference.
Elise Labott
Contributing Editor, POLITICO Magazine & CEO of Zivvy Media
Elise Labott is an adjunct professor at American University’s School of International Service and the founder and CEO of Zivvy Media, a digital platform to engage youth on global issues.