Biosecurity and Biosafety: different points of view and harmonizing terminologies. The Scientist's point of view

S. GOLDSTEIN DE FINK

Río de Janeiro, Brasil

Simposio; I Simposio Internacional de Biocustodia e Investigaciones de uso dual; 2009

Asociación Nacional de Bioseguridad de Brasil (ANBIO)

Biosecurity and Biosafety: different points of view and harmonizing terminologies . The scientist’s point of view. Susana Fink Scientists working in life sciences are not always aware of the potential dual use of their research. There is no tradition, in this area of knowledge, of restricted information; moreover there is great reluctance about the subject. Education and training are needed to acquire capacity to do correct assessments, but Biosafety and Biosecurity issues are frequently excluded from the curricula and many scientists do not consider these issues important. There is a need to establish a culture of responsible conduct related to the possible misuse of scientific knowledge. Codes of Ethics for scientists were proposed at a review meeting of the Biological and Toxin Weapons Convention. In Argentina, one of the subscribers, the National Science and Technology Ethics Committee (CECTE) has produced in 2005 a document entitled “Codes of Conduct of scientists and institutions, Biological and Toxin Weapons Convention”.  The Universal Ethical Code for Scientists proposes to encourage among scientists a reflection on the implications and impacts of their work. Brazil and Argentina have a collaborative Work Program about Science and Technology Ethics, which includes the Code of Conduct. It is important that members of the biological sciences community increase their consciousness of Biosecurity issues and learn to assess their projects with respect to security aspects, in order to minimize the possible use of their research or results with malicious intent. Scientific Societies and Institutions must also get involved. The scientific community should be able to apply self control over these issues. Communication has to be taken into account. Bioscientists must reassure the public that precautions are taken and risks are appropriately addressed in order to avoid community opposition to their work. It must be recognized that it is not easy to find the adequate balance between scientific progress and avoiding or reducing risks. On the other hand Codes of Conduct are necessary for raising awareness about dual use among scientists working in life sciences.