Biological
Weapons Convention
|
What is the Biological Weapons Convention
The Convention on the Prohibition of the
Development, Production and
Stockpiling of Bacteriological
(Biological) and Toxin Weapons and on their Destruction (usually
referred to as just Biological
Weapons Convention, abbreviation: BWC) was the first multilateral
disarmament treaty banning the production of an entire category of
weapons (with exceptions for medical and defensive purposes in small
quantities). It was the result of prolonged efforts by the
international community to establish a new instrument that would
supplement the 1925 Geneva Protocol.
It was opened for signature on April 10, 1972 and entered into force
March 26, 1975 when twenty-two governments had deposited their
instruments of ratification. It currently commits the 150 states that
are party to it to prohibit the development, production, and
stockpiling of biological and
toxin weapons. However, the absence of any formal verification
regime to monitor compliance has limited the effectiveness of the
Convention.
The BWC specifically does not outlaw use of such weapons, only their
production, storage, and means of delivery. Although usage of such
weapons could be considered unlawful by a number of existing Geneva
Convention protocols and international law.
XXAs stated by the
BWC:
"Each State Party to this Convention undertakes never in any
circumstances to develop, produce, stockpile or otherwise acquire or
retain:
- Microbial or other biological agents, or toxins
whatever their origin
or method of production, of types and in quantities that have no
justification for prophylactic, protective or other peaceful purposes;
- Weapons, equipment or means of delivery
designed to use such agents or toxins for hostile purposes or in armed
conflict."
A long process of negotiation to add these missing elements began in
the 1990s. Early in 2001, however, the Bush administration, after
conducting a complete review of policy on biological weapons, decided
that the protocol did not suit national interests of the United States,
that it would interfere with the legitimate commercial and biodefense
activity. Unlike most arms control agreements, the BWC also applies to
private parties.
Having been suspended in December, 2001, negotiations for a
ratification protocol are resuming in November, 2003.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Biological_Weapons_Convention
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Copyrights
Armageddon
Online
|
|
