NGO support for the OPCW against chemical terrorism.

 

The OPCW has established itself as a leading actor in the global fight against chemical terrorism and undertakes various capacity building activities under the Convention that have the “double benefit” of not only supporting treaty implementation but also contributing to the global fight against terrorism.

 This notwithstanding, NGOs could support the OPCW in this role by: 

• Highlighting the fact that chemical terrorism is real—as evidenced by the most recent IIT report on chemical attacks in Marea, Syria in 2015—and victims of such terrorist acts should be included in the OPCW’s broader efforts to support victims of CW use.

 • Contributing to a broader understanding of (1) the Organization’s leading role in discussions on and action against chemical terrorism and (2) and its continuing suitability in fulfilling that role. The sometimes-proposed alternative legal instruments or actors to take over this role are only detracting attention away from the many useful contributions the Organization and CWC State Parties have been making in the global fight against chemical terrorism. • Supporting the Organization’s capacity building activities in relation to the legal accountability of non-state actors as well as the prevention of and response to chemical terrorism. Some NGOs have already established a track record in supporting CWC States Parties in drafting national legislation for CWC implementation.