With reference to ‘Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW)’, consider the following statements:

1. It is an organization of European Union in working relations with NATO and WHO.
2. It monitors the chemical industry to prevent new weapons from emerging.
3. It provides assistance and protection to States (Parties) against chemical weapons threats.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

1. 1 only
2. 2 and 3 only
3. 1 and 3 only
4. 1, 2 and 3

Explanation

Only statements 2 and 3 are correct

• OPCW is the implementing body for the Chemical Weapons Convention. Its mission is to achieve a world free of chemical weapons. It was established when the Chemical Weapons Convention entered into force on 29 April 1997.
• It is an independent intergovernmental organisation, not affiliated with a specific region like the European Union.
• HQ: Hague, Netherlands.
• The OPCW is authorised to perform inspections to verify that signatory states are complying with the convention.
• If a Member State considers that chemical weapons have been used against it, or it is threatened by actions prohibited by the Convention, it can request assistance from the OPCW.
  • Article X of the Convention sets out the procedure for requesting and receiving assistance against the use of chemical weapons.
• The OPCW was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2013.

Answer: (b) 2 and 3; Difficulty Level: Medium