NCJ Number
192089
Date Published
2002
Length
22 pages
Annotation
This chapter discusses the workings of the 1992 Chemical Weapons Convention.
Abstract
The 1992 Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) is by all accounts one of the most effective international treaties written, but not without its limitations. The chapter includes a lengthy discussion of the extremely difficult matter of verification, and the highs and lows of the international community's relationship with Iraq, an unwilling signer of the accord. In addition, it examines other attempts at disarmament and control, and speculates on not just the chances but even the desirability of treaties. Numerous efforts to control the spread of chemical weapons prior to and following World War I were mostly ineffectual: First Hague Conference (1899), Second Hague Conference (1907), Washington Arms Conference (1921), and Geneva Protocol (1925). The Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) of 1972 prohibited the "development, production, acquisition, retention, stockpiling, transfer, and use of all chemical weapons." States that signed and ratified the agreement were required to declare any and all CW stockpiles and to destroy their chemical weapons within a reasonable amount of time - anywhere from 5 to 10 years. States were also responsible for the cleanup of any chemical weapons that had been abandoned in another state's territory. In addition, CWC members agreed to destroy or convert to peaceful use any chemical-weapons production facilities operated since 1946 under their jurisdictions. The chapter discusses controlling, scheduling, and monitoring agents and precursors, verification of compliance, destruction of chemical weapons, destruction and conversion of facilities, and brain drain in the former Soviet Union. Figures, notes