At the beginning of this year, the ECDC and WHO jointly evaluated, among other things, the Dutch capacities related to ‘Biosafety & Biosecurity’.

On November 6th, the Dutch biosecurity network gathered to gain knowledge, share experiences, and catch up on this fascinating field.

During a routine check, it is noticed that the digital inventory system lists twelve Eppendorf tubes of H5N1 Influenza in the -80°C freezer, while only ten tubes are physically present.

The Biosecurity Office regularly attends international meetings with the aim of sharing knowledge, gaining insights, and networking.

In recent months, several publications have appeared that are relevant to biosecurity.

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.

It was exciting until the last minute whether it could go ahead, but we are happy that we can look back on a successful Knowledge Day.

In October, Rik Bleijs was elected co-chair of the steering committee of the International Experts Groups of Biosafety and Biosecurity Regulators (IEGBBR).

Here we present another current scenario with regard to biosecurity. This time the scenario is based on a recently published article about orphan material.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs regularly organizes seminars on export control. Due to continued success, another export control seminar will be organized on Friday 26 November 2021.