The World Health Organization (WHO) published a report in October containing the findings of an international horizon scan on dual-use research of concern (DURC) in the life sciences. In this horizon scan, entitled 'Emerging technologies and dual-use concerns: a horizon scan for global public health', technologies have been identified that may be associated with dual-use risks in the future.

 This publication presents the findings of an international horizon scan on dual-use research of concern (DURC) in the life sciences. Horizon scans have proved useful in
identifying emerging opportunities and risks due to social and technological change. For this study, the scan was based on structured elicitation of information from experts
convened by the Science Division of the World Health Organization (WHO). The final 15 priority issues were classified by the experts as to be expected in timelines from < 5 years to ≥ 10 years. The identified priorities range from governance to new and converging technologies. A clearer understanding of the areas in which life sciences research could be most seriously misused could strengthen governance and national, regional and international preparedness and response.

Download publication: https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789240036161