Since the BWC entered into force in 1975, membership has grown from 64 to 155 nations. However, 24 nations have yet to sign the treaty, and 16 signatories still have not ratified it. The BWC lags behind a similar treaty, the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC), which was enacted in 1993 and now has 178 members. Achieving universal membership in the BWC is increasingly important as scientific and technological capabilities applicable to biological weapons continue to spread globally.

Member states may lay the groundwork at the Review Conference for an action plan to achieve universality, since it is both a point of agreement and a realizable goal. Proposals have been advanced which outline key aspects of such an action plan, recognizing that efforts towards universality must be accompanied with a vigorous strategy to achieve full implementation of BWC obligations. The bigger questions are how action is to be taken, and what incentives are necessary to encourage non-member states to join.

1. Taking Effective Action: A New Work Program

2. Enabling Effective Action: A Stronger Support Mechanism

3. Fulfilling Obligations: National Implementation

4. Enhancing Transparency: Information Exchange and Confidence Building Measures

5. Resolving tensions: The relationship between non-proliferation and peaceful cooperation

6. Addressing Scientific and Technological Advance

7. Achieving Universality