Statement by the Delegation of Brazil at the UNSC meeting on Threats to International Peace and Security - March 11th, 2022

Madam President,

Biological weapons were the first category of weapon of mass destruction to be subject to a comprehensive prohibition. The Biological Weapons Convention (BWC), adopted in 1972, binds all its States Parties to the obligation to “never in any circumstances to develop, produce, stockpile or otherwise acquire” such weapons.

Brazil believes that any accusation regarding violations of the basic prohibitions set out by the BWC are extremely serious and, as such, must be thoroughly substantiated by solid evidence.  Such evidence must be presented to and confirmed by an independent and impartial authority, as foreseen in Article VI of the Biological Weapons Convention (BWC). It is unfortunate that such investigation mechanisms are not strong enough at the moment.

Brazil also believes that legitimate scientific and technological research on biosafety and biosecurity should be kept distinct and separate from possible violations of the prohibition against the development and production of biological weapons if we wish to preserve the BWC regime. Research into new and dangerous pathogens should be subject to strict transparency mechanisms.

Brazil has long favoured the negotiation of a multilateral verification protocol as a complement to the BWC, with additional measures to guarantee protection and security against emerging biological threats. The situation before the Council today only reinforces the urgency and the necessity of such a mechanism.

Brazil strongly condemns the use or threat of use of weapons of mass destruction, including biological and chemical weapons, anywhere, by anyone, under any circumstances.

Thank you, Madam President