Pathogens with Pandemic Potential (PPP) & Dual Use Research of Concern (DURC): Rules and Policies for Managing Biosecurity and Biosafety Risks (in Asia)

In May 2024, the United States Office of Science and Technology Policy issued the “Policy for Oversight of Dual Use Research of Concern and Pathogens with Enhanced Pandemic Potential” (PEPP) an updated federal regulatory framework for supervising scientific research involving pathogens with enhanced pandemic potential. In 2022, the World Health Organization issued the “Global guidance framework for the responsible use of the life sciences: mitigating biorisks and governing dual-use research“. The purpose of these rules is to reduce the risk of pandemics resulting from scientific research on dangerous viruses and toxins.

These rules and guidance are positive developments. However, many states around the world lack effective rules governing research on dangerous pathogens. Since pathogens do not respect man-made borders, global risk management requires the international adoption of similar rules by other countries. Otherwise, dangerous pathogens could escape from labs in countries that lack such regulations, resulting in global catastrophes. I am interested, in particular, in the regulation of the risks related to DURC and PPP in Asian countries.

States and other stakeholders (scientists, industry) should work towards adopting new rules or updating existing ones. In particular, it would be desirable for states to coordinate internationally and agree on common minimum standards. This could potentially be done under the auspices of the WHO and/or the Biological Weapons Convention or under a new multi-stakeholder partnership.