Verifying the Biological Weapons Convention: The Role of Technology in Biological Arms Control

摘要

The 1972 Biological Weapons Convention prohibits the possession and use of biological agents in war, but does not contain provisions for treaty enforcement. The Protocol to the BWC, an effort to improve enforcement of the treaty, has defined specific mechanisms for verification. This thesis examines the potential for technology to support treaty verification. First, the history of the treaty and efforts to improve it are discussed. Second, the requirements for technical support of verification are examined, and criteria are developed to evaluate potential detection systems. Then, technologies for detection and identification are illustrated, including an evaluation of currently available systems. A procedure for the implementation and support of verification technology is provided. This approach demonstrates a specific process of employing technology to enhance deterrence and verify of compliance with the BWC.