Chemical disarmament in a technologically evolving world

Abstract

This chapter looks at chemical disarmament and technological change, using the example of progress in, and the review of, the operation of the Chemical Weapons Convention, whose implementing body is the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW). The discussion looks at chemicals in war, treaty implementation, chemical warfare agents, the role of technical experts in disarmament, scientific advancement and future challenges. Advances in science and technology benefit chemical disarmament, and are necessary for effective non-proliferation, yet some advances can potentially be misdirected to cause harm. In this context, international disarmament treaty policymakers require actionable science advice. The OPCW Scientific Advisory Board provides this advice through the review of relevant science and technology to identify risks and to help further strengthen the Chemical Weapons Convention.