Greyzone genomics - Theme, Pufendorf IAS

Theme at the Pufendorf Institute for Advanced Studies

This theme addresses how recent advances in genetic technology can be misused in international power struggles, thereby violating human rights and compromising human security. Using a transdisciplinary approach, we will assess risks and consequences from incorporating genetic biotechnology in greyzone and hybrid warfare tactics, for example disinformation based on genetic data, defamation campaigns based on synthetic DNA, psychological profiling of political leaders based on their DNA sequences, weaponization of refugees carrying synthetic pathogens and large-scale DNA sequence data theft for AI development. We conclude by inviting experts from stakeholder organizations to explore countermeasures against the most probable and consequential scenarios.