Biosecurity in the Age of AI Risks and Opportunities

This commentary discusses the complexities of biosecurity in relation to the emergence of artificial intelligence (AI) in biotechnology. It outlines the potential benefits and risks associated with AI-powered biotechnologies, emphasizing the need for integrated governance frameworks to manage their dual-use nature. The commentary highlights the recent United Nations conference celebrating the Biological Weapons Convention, which underscores the security risks posed by advancements in biotechnology and AI. It details how AI can enhance biosecurity through improved disease surveillance and laboratory safety, while also noting the risks of misuse by malicious actors. The authors advocate for the establishment of policy guardrails and collaborative efforts among governments, AI developers, and biosecurity experts to mitigate these risks. The commentary concludes with recommendations for regional cooperation in Southeast Asia to develop cohesive biosecurity governance that addresses the challenges posed by AI in biotechnology.