Special Topic 2 – Virus & Biotechnology
Biosecurity, Ethics & Global Health Governance (Page 4)

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 What is Biosecurity?

Biosecurity refers to measures taken to prevent the misuse of biological research and to protect populations from infectious diseases, bioterrorism, and accidental laboratory leaks.

• Laboratory safety protocols
• Pathogen monitoring systems
• Regulation of genetic research
• International disease surveillance

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 Ethical Concerns in Biotechnology

• Gene editing in humans (CRISPR)
• Designer babies debate
• Data privacy in genetic databases
• Informed consent in clinical trials

Biotechnology has enormous potential, but without ethical safeguards, it can create social inequality and unintended consequences.

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 Global Health Governance

Pandemics like COVID-19 highlighted the need for strong global coordination. Institutions and international agreements play a critical role in health security.

• International disease reporting systems
• Vaccine equity initiatives
• Global research collaboration
• Strengthening public health infrastructure

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 Emerging Risks

• Bioterrorism threats
• Accidental release of engineered organisms
• Cyber-biosecurity risks
• Antimicrobial resistance

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📚 UPSC & Competitive Relevance

• Science & Technology – Developments and Applications
• Ethics, Integrity & Aptitude
• International Relations – Global Cooperation
• Public Health Policy

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 Strategic Insight:

Scientific power must be guided by ethical responsibility and global cooperation.

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 Special Topic Series by Shaktimatha Learning
Science with Responsibility for Competitive Excellence