Bioterrorism is inherently a matter for international attention. Bio-weapons threaten mass casualties in addition to other disastrous long term consequences. Criminal networks can covertly transport lethal agents across borders and terrorists have already proven that anthrax can be fatally deployed.

UN Security Council Resolution 1540 - adopted on 28 April 2004 - recognises the serious threat to international peace and security posed by biological weapons and urges greater co-ordination, nationally and internationally, to strengthen the global response.

Law enforcement agencies have a crucial role to play - with significant support from, and in collaboration with, a range of other bodies - in preventing and responding to bioterrorism.

Interpol, with support from the Sloan Foundation, is pleased to announce the 1st Global Conference to strengthen law enforcement preparedness and develop effective police training:

When: Tuesday 1 and Wednesday 2 March 2005.

Where: Palais de Congres, Lyon, France.

Who should attend: Senior police officers including Chiefs of Police, Heads of NCB and those involved in counter-terrorism; relevant national and international governmental and non governmental agencies, academics and scientists.

Simultaneous interpretation will be provided in English, French, Spanish and Arabic.

Who to contact: Interpol has established a Bioterrorism unit within the Public Safety and Terrorism Sub Directorate at IPSG. It will co-ordinate activities and, in particular, act as the focal point for this Conference. For further information about the Bioterrorism project, the Conference, and for applications to reserve places, please contact:

E-mail public address: webbioterrorism@interpol.int

Additional information about the Interpol Bioterrorism programme can also be found in Interpol Press Release dated 06 July, 2004.

News and Media Releases   Interpol Conference agrees on measures to fight Bio-Terrorism        Bio-Terrorism Conference opens with warning of major threat        Interpol Bio-Terrorism Conference set to be largest ever        Interpol hosts first global conference on bio-terrorism        Interpol launches police training programme on bio-terrorism      Speeches   Speech by Jackie Selebi, President, Interpol   Speech by Ronald K. Noble, Secretary General, Interpol See also   All Interpol bioterrorism workshops and events   Presentations   Final Communiqué       Steps taken by member countries in response to UNSCR 1540   National Laws and Measures   Speakers' CVs   Conference announcement      Photo gallery       Agenda (Diffusion - 30/12/2004)     (Acrobat files)