The Chemical Weapons Convention and the Contribution of the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons to Sustainable Development

Abstract

The concepts of disarmament, counter-terrorism, and sustainable development are interdependent and inextricably linked. In order to achieve the goals set out in the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, states must abandon the competitive ‘arms culture’, cooperate to prevent violence by non-state actors, and divert resources towards peace and security. This article examines the past, present and future role of the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) in furthering sustainable development through disarmament and counter-terrorism. As the Organisation considers its future priorities and focuses on promoting the peaceful use of chemistry and preventing the re-emergence of chemical weapons, the links between peace, security, and development will continue to be of critical importance.