The International Biosecurity and Biosafety Initiative for Science (IBBIS) welcomes the European Commission’s commitment to adopt a comprehensive EU Biotech Act by 2026, as reaffirmed during the multi-stakeholder briefing on DNA/RNA synthesis screening held on 21 May 2025, organised by Pour Demain.

The hearing brought together European institutions, scientific experts, industry leaders, and civil society to discuss how DNA/RNA synthesis screening can serve as a critical safeguard within the broader European biosecurity architecture. As noted during the session, emerging standards such as the US Screening Framework, UK Screening Guidance, and ISO 20688-2 provide valuable precedents. However, the European landscape remains fragmented, and greater alignment is urgently needed.

Speaking at the briefing, IBBIS emphasized that synthesis screening is a proven and scalable solution to mitigate risks associated with the misuse of synthetic nucleic acids—without stifling innovation. However, adoption remains limited. A coherent and coordinated EU-level approach can provide the regulatory clarity needed to accelerate uptake, while also supporting international harmonization. As Sophie Peresson, speaking on behalf of IBBIS, said:

We strongly welcome the European Commission’s timely engagement on this issue and its willingness to consult widely across sectors. IBBIS is committed to working closely with the Commission to develop pragmatic and internationally aligned guidance that ensures biosecurity while enabling innovation in synthetic biology.

IBBIS will continue to engage with the European Commission and stakeholders across Europe to support the development and implementation of the EU Biotech Act. We believe that a robust and transparent regulatory environment is essential to safeguarding science and building global trust in biotechnology.

Cover image from Sébastien Bertrand on Flickr.