Evidence-based risk assessment of genetic technology in international conflict

Please note: The for location for this event is: Drottning Kristinas väg 37, Stockholm

Discussions about future military biotechnology have been accompanied by alarms about the potential threat of “ethnic bioweapons.” Some voices argue that recent breakthroughs in DNA sequencing and synthesis could be misused by antagonistic actors to develop bioweapons targeting specific individuals or groups. But to what extent is this a real threat? Could the very narrative itself be exploited as a tool in cognitive warfare? What can actually be done with genetic data, and does access to such data provide strategic advantages?

Open lecture and panel discussion

On 7 May, the research group Greyzone Genomics from the Pufendorf Institute at Lund University invites you to a discussion on threat scenarios linked to emerging genetic technologies.

The event begins with a keynote lecture by Filippa Lentzos, King’s College London, an expert on biosafety and international relations, who will speak on the intersection of genetics and disinformation in international affairs. This will be followed by a presentation from the research group on various perspectives on genetic technology as a potential weapon in grey zone conflicts and warfare. The session concludes with a panel discussion, where the audience is encouraged to ask questions and contribute comments on the strategic implications for Sweden.

Topics covered include:

• Risk assessment of targeted bioweapons: What does the research say?
• International genetic data flows: Who shares, who hoards?
• Legal perspectives: Grey areas and loopholes in international law
• Bioweapons in cognitive warfare: What is actually true?
• Bioterrorism: How does new biotechnology reshape the threat landscape?

After the panel discussion, refreshments and snacks will be served.

Register by 23 April

To attend the event, you must register via the link below and bring valid identification to pass security checks. Please arrive in good time to allow for this process.

Please register no later than 23 April (registration form in Swedish): Anmälan till Grey-zone Genomics 7 maj kl 15:00-18:00 - Sverigesalen v2

About Pufendorf IAS Theme Greyzone Genomics

The event will be held in English and is organised by the Theme Greyzone Genomics. The group brings together expertise in medical genetics, disinformation, international law, war studies, and intelligence analysis, with participants from the Swedish Defence University, Lund University, and the Swedish Defence Research Agency (FOI).

Read more about the Pufendorf Theme Greyzone Genomics on Pufendorf IAS' website