UNICRI’s programme on Counterfeiting is based on a long tradition of research in matters of organized crime. Counterfeiting is an important part of the work of the Institute due to the growing interest of criminal organizations in this area.
Enhancing Biosecurity and Biosafety
Research and development in Life Sciences have the potential to bring about transformational change for the betterment of society, including through the convergence of advances in fields like synthetic biology, nanotechnology, information technology, the cognitive sciences, and neurosciences. However, the risks related to the misuse of the technological advances cannot be ignored.
UNICRI has been at the forefront in understanding the potential security risks related to the advances in biology and developing response options.
Launched in 2010, the EU Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (CBRN) Centres of Excellence (CoE) Initiative is a global Initiative funded and implemented by the European Union through the Neighbourhood, Development and International Cooperation Instrument – Global Europe, as part of its goal to promote peace, stability and conflict prevention.
The issue of cybercrime has been a focus of UNICRI since 2004, and after years of experience, UNICRI now possesses the skills and know-how to analyze trends concerning cybercrime in its many forms. UNICRI is supported by an extensive, specialized and trusted contact network consisting of private enterprises, international organizations and NGOs, academic institutions, law enforcement bodies, governmental bodies, and other UN agencies.
A sampling of the Emerging Crimes Unit's past activities with respect to cybersecurity and technology misuse can be found below:
UNICRI Strategic Engagement In Technology: Supporting The Fight Against Crime And Responding To The Misuse Of Technology
UNICRI' s strategy to counter the misuse of technology and other emerging crimes is reflected in the words of the Secretary-General of the United Nations, Mr. Ban Ki-moon: "I urge you to be more innovative. When it comes to emerging threats such as cybercrime, environmental crime and counterfeiting, we must stay one step ahead of the criminals. We must also be more effective in stopping the money flows enabled by corruption and money-laundering".
Advances in biology and biotechnology are occurring at an unprecedented rate, opening doors for seeking improvements in important fields such as health, food and environment. However, rapidly advancing capabilities, decreasing costs and widely expanding access to and participation in modern biology and biotechnology simultaneously increase the likelihood of safety and security risks that could endanger public health and the environment. UNICRI has been at the forefront in understanding these potential security risks.
Introduction
UNICRI, in collaboration with the Italian Medicines Agency, GCP Promotion Unit, GCP and Pharmacovigilance Inspectorate, has undertaken research on the procedures adopted in clinical trials involving the participation of human beings. In recent years, the practice of clinical trials involving human participants in developing countries has become widespread.
UNICRI and AIFA collaborate to protect human rights and promote ethical and legal standards for clinical drug trials in developing countries
UNICRI has recently received a contribution from the Italian Medicines Agency (AIFA) to implement a new training and technical cooperation project aimed at the promotion of ethics, law and the human rights of participants in clinical research of drugs in developing countries.