NTI Side Events at the December 2025 BWC Meetings

Since 2017, NTI | bio has worked to build a global network of diverse, next-generation biosecurity leaders committed to reducing catastrophic biological risks and strengthening global biosecurity. Through its Next Generation for Biosecurity program, NTI | bio has brought together rising leaders from around the world, empowering them to develop innovative solutions and amplifying their voices at international forums.

This December, NTI | bio will bring eleven students and early-career professionals to Geneva, Switzerland, for the Meeting of the Working Group on Strengthening the Biological Weapons Convention (BWC), taking place December 8 – 12. During the week, NTI will host two events showcasing the ideas and contributions of these emerging leaders to strengthen global biosecurity and the BWC.

Poster Exhibition: Perspectives From Emerging Leaders on Strengthening the BWC

Time: 1:15 – 2:45 PM CET
Date: Wednesday, December 10, 2025
Location: Palais des Nations, Tempus Building, Geneva, Switzerland

NTI | bio will host rising biosecurity leaders as they showcase policy and technical recommendations to strengthen the Biological Weapons Convention amid a complex and evolving threat environment. Next generation representatives from around the world will present ideas focused on the following topics: international cooperation and assistance under Article X, confidence-building, transparency, compliance, verification, and scientific and technological developments relevant to the convention.

Diverse & Inclusive Engagement to Strengthen the Biological Weapons Convention 

Time: 1:15 – 2:45 PM CET
Date: Friday, December 12, 2025
Location: Palais des Nations, Building A, Room IX, Geneva, Switzerland

The Biological Weapons Convention remains a cornerstone of international peace and security, but its continued relevance and effectiveness depend on broad, inclusive participation. The UN Office of Disarmament Affairs (UNODA) and NTI | bio will host a side event featuring a panel of women experts, next generation leaders, and Global South representatives who are actively contributing to the BWC’s goals and shaping its future. In addition to the panel, the event will include a presentation from the winners of NTI’s Next Generation for Biosecurity Competition, whose forward-thinking ideas reflect the creativity of a new generation.

By convening this discussion, UNODA and NTI | bio aim to elevate underrepresented voices and generate new perspectives that can inform future working papers, national strategies, and inclusive engagement efforts ahead of RevCon10. Refreshments will be provided.