The Chemical Weapons Convention-disarmament, science and technology

Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) held in 1993 bans the use of chemical weapons, and also prohibits their development, production, acquisition, retention, transfer and stockpiling, and either bans or regulates their precursors. Stockpiles of possessor states under the Convention have been removed from military use and have been, or are being destroyed, under international verification. More than 80% of stockpiles have so far been destroyed, and it is projected that destruction activities will be completed within the future. Inspection and verification activities are run by the Technical Secretariat of the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), located in The Hague. The OPCW actively fosters interaction with civil society, as well as the scientific community. The organisation encourages participation by NGOs in the annual Conference of the States Parties and the five-yearly Review Conferences.