Pakistan Proposes Harsh Penalties for Use of Biological Weapons

National Assembly to Vote on Bill Outlawing Biological and Toxin Weapons

The National Assembly is scheduled to vote on the Biological and Toxin Weapons Convention (Implementation) Bill, 2024, aiming to outlaw the production, storage, and use of biological and toxin weapons. This legislative move brings Pakistan in compliance with the 1972 Biological Weapons Convention.

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Key Details of the Proposed Legislation

Presented by:
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar will introduce the bill for approval.

Prohibitions and Penalties:

1. Production and Trade (Clause 1a):
   • Individuals involved in the design, production, transportation, or trade of biological weapons for illegal purposes face:
     • Imprisonment: 10 to 25 years.
     • Fine: Up to Rs. 10 million.
   • All related materials, equipment, and properties will be seized by the federal government.
2. Acquisition and Support (Clause 1b):
   • Those acquiring or maintaining materials for biological weapons or providing financial, technical, or logistical support could face:
     • Imprisonment: Up to 25 years.
     • Fine: Rs. 10 million.
   • Assets linked to such activities will also be confiscated.
3. Use or Attempted Use (Clause 4):
   • The bill explicitly prohibits the use or attempted use of biological weapons within Pakistan and abroad.

Alignment with Global Obligations

This legislation reinforces Pakistan’s commitment to the Biological Weapons Convention and global efforts to prevent the proliferation of biological weapons, enhancing both national and international security.

The vote on this bill is a critical step in aligning domestic laws with international conventions, signaling Pakistan’s stance against the development and use of biological weapons.