Pathogens as Weapons: The International Security Implications of Biological Warfare
Author(s)
Koblentz, Gregory
Abstract
Biological weapons have become one of the most important security issues facing the world today. This article explores the destablizing affect biological weapons have on international security. First, the author examines the nature and major characteristics of pathogens as weapons. Next, he assesses the security implications of biological weapons in four key areas of concern: proliferation, deterrence, civil-military relations, and threat assessment. He concludes that it is extremely difficult to prevent the spread of biologoical weapons to actors motivated by a desire to challenge the status quo, in spite of the fact that biological weapons do not confer the same deterrent benefits associated with nuclear weapons. Ultimately, the secrecy inherent in biologoical weapons programs produces a variety of destabilizing effects: it impedes verification, undermines deterrence, hinders oversight, and complicates threat assessments. In light of this, the author offers policy suggestions to reduce the biological weapons threat.
