Recent outbreaks of Zika (2015-present) and Ebola (2013-16), as well as intent by non-state actors to obtain, develop and/or use biological agents, underline the potential of catastrophic impacts of biological threats for both public health and international security.
Capacity to contain and respond to biological threats varies considerably across the world. In lower-income countries, lack of adequate health services poses a particular challenge for early diagnosis and treatment measures.
At the international level, there are concerns over the use of biological agents by state and non-state actors.
Preparedness and city resilience as part of a bottom-up approach plays a key role in strengthening and supporting the Biological Weapons Convention.
This initiative will set a good example of an international partnership in the area of biological and will provide an innovative thinking through urban resilience and city preparedness to counter biological threats.
This is a joint project with the Centre on Global Health Security at Chatham House, and is currently funded by Canada’s Global Partnership Programme.