Preventing Chemical Weapons: Arms Control and Disarmament as the Sciences Converge

The life and chemical sciences are undergoing rapid transformation, which could lead to the development of chemical weapons. This book examines current and likely near-future advances in relevant science and technology, assesses the risks of their misuse, and explores the roles of chemical and life scientists, health professionals, and wider informed activist civil society in protecting the prohibition against poison and chemical weapons. It also recommends more effective routes to combat their proliferation and misuse.

Format: Hardback
Length: 652 pages
Publication date: 20 August 2018
Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry

The life and chemical sciences are currently undergoing a transformative era that holds immense potential for societal advancements, yet also poses significant risks, particularly in the realm of chemical weapons development. The unstable international security landscape and evolving nature of armed conflicts exacerbate these concerns, fueling a desire by certain states to retain and utilize existing chemical weapons, as well as increasing their interest in creating new ones. Additionally, a broader range of actors may resort to using diverse toxic chemicals as improvised weapons.

Stark evidence of the multifaceted dangers we face can be observed in the chemical weapons attacks against civilians and combatants in Iraq, Syria, Malaysia, and the UK. To address these challenges, this book employs a multi-disciplinary approach, drawing upon a collective of international experts. It critically analyzes current and anticipated advancements in relevant science and technology, assessing the potential risks of their misuse.

The book delves into the current capabilities, limitations, and failures of the existing international arms control and disarmament architecture, particularly the Chemical Weapons Convention, in preventing the development and use of chemical weapons. By employing a novel Holistic Arms Control methodology, the authors extend their analysis beyond the confines of these treaties, exploring the full spectrum of international law, international agreements, and regulatory mechanisms applicable to weapons employing toxic chemical agents. This comprehensive approach aims to provide recommendations for more effective strategies to combat the proliferation and misuse of such weapons.

A significant emphasis is placed on the roles of chemical and life scientists, as well as health professionals, in addressing the challenges posed by chemical weapons. The book recognizes the critical need for interdisciplinary collaboration and knowledge exchange to develop effective countermeasures and mitigate the harm caused by these weapons. It underscores the importance of promoting international regulations, standards, and protocols to ensure the responsible use and disposal of chemical agents.

Furthermore, the book explores the ethical and societal implications of chemical weapons use, emphasizing the need for accountability, transparency, and the protection of vulnerable populations. It raises important questions about the responsibility of scientists, researchers, and policymakers in ensuring that scientific advancements are aligned with humanitarian principles and do not contribute to the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction.

In conclusion, the life and chemical sciences are at a crossroads, where rapid advancements hold the promise of positive change, but also pose significant threats. This book serves as a valuable resource for policymakers, scientists, and stakeholders in understanding the complexities of the chemical weapons landscape and developing effective strategies to mitigate the risks associated with their misuse. By fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and promoting global regulations, we can work towards a safer and more peaceful world.

Weight: 1152g
Dimension: 162 x 240 x 43 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781782626497