What is the International Convention on the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (CWC)?

The International Convention on the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (CWC) is an international treaty banning the production, stockpiling and use of chemical weapons. It was signed by the United States and Russia in 1993, and entered into force in 1997. The treaty covers a wide range of chemical warfare agents, including toxic gases, blister agents, choking agents, and many other well-known biological, chemical and radiological agents. It also requires countries to destroy all of their existing chemical weapons stockpiles and prohibits them from engaging in any activities that would lead to the production of new chemical weapons. The CWC has been ratified by over 190 countries, making it one of the most widely adopted international agreements in history. As a signatory to the CWC, Washington State has strictly forbidden the production, acquisition and use of chemical weapons. The state also has established an implementation regime for the CWC that provides for inspections of suspected chemical weapons production sites, activities and facilities. In addition, Washington State must ensure that its chemical industry is compliant with the CWC and may not transfer technology that can be used for the production of chemical weapons. Lastly, the state is charged with promoting the ideals of the convention and raising awareness of the dangers of chemical weapons.

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What is the International Convention on the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (CWC)?

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