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Preventing #Biological #Weapons #Proliferation: Operational Applications of Emerging Technologies
#Stockholm, March 20th, 2026
Today, #SIPRI releases a report on how existing and potential applications of #artificial #intelligence (#AI) and distributed ledger technology (DLT) could help strengthen key functions of the biological weapons prohibition regime.
Advances in AI and DLT are reshaping how biological research, data and materials are managed. At the same time, the mechanisms used to implement and demonstrate compliance with the biological weapons prohibition regime rely heavily on national oversight systems that face increasing administrative complexity and uneven capacity across states. Emerging technologies are often discussed as potential sources of risk in the life sciences, but they may also provide tools to strengthen key regime functions. AI and DLT could support more effective laboratory oversight, strengthen export controls on dual use items, and facilitate national reporting and transparency mechanisms. Their impact will depend on governance choices—including how states manage data integrity, human oversight, interoperability and equitable access to digital capabilities. Used responsibly, these tools could improve record integrity, administrative efficiency and confidence in the peaceful use of biological research.
About the authors
Dr Miranda Smith is a Researcher in the SIPRI Weapons of Mass Destruction Programme. Kolja Brockmann is a Senior Researcher in the SIPRI Dual Use and Arms Trade Control Programme. Dr Mark Bromley is the Director of the SIPRI Dual Use and Arms Trade Control Programme.
SIPRI is an independent international institute dedicated to research into conflict, armaments, arms control and disarmament. Established in 1966, SIPRI provides data, analysis and recommendations, based on open sources, to policymakers, researchers, media and the interested public. More …
