Division 1.2.3 Project description and implementation

A maximum of five workshops, organised in collaboration with global and regional scientific associations, industry (represented by global or regional relevant industrial federations and professional associations such as biosafety-associations) and academic experts, would focus on the topics identified under the standing agenda item on science and technology and its impact on biosafety and biosecurity, and would encourage a regional dialogue on such issues while at the same time raising awareness amongst the scientific and professional community within the regions. Such workshops will, as appropriate, be convened adjacent to relevant scientific conferences or biosafety conferences to maximise outreach possibilities and to minimise costs. A key element of these workshops will be active participation by scientists and regulatory professionals from developing countries, which will require sponsorship. To further sustain the engagement of the aforementioned stakeholders, small grants will be made available in order for them to conduct subsequent research leading to publications on topics discussed at the workshops.

The sustainability of this project will be addressed through the establishment of a virtual network of experts drawn from participants in the workshops. Such experts could also be included on national delegations to BTWC meetings and could contribute to the review of scientific and technological developments.