Home > International Cooperation
The Organisation’s international cooperation programmes focus on capacity building for the peaceful applications of chemistry in areas which are relevant to the Chemical Weapons Convention. A number of programmes are being implemented by the Organisation which are primarily designed for Member States whose economies are developing.
While the CWC seeks to ban chemical weapons, it also provides for international cooperation among States Parties in the pursuit of chemistry for peaceful purposes.
International cooperation is provided in many areas: from sponsoring chemical research and improving laboratory capacity, to specialised internships and training in the implementation of the CWC, and safe chemical management.
The provisions of the CWC have to be effectively and stringently implemented to ensure that a global chemical weapons ban is achieved. Support programmes, funded by the Member States, enhance the ability of the Organisation to hinder prohibited activity and to extend the benefits of peaceful uses of chemistry to all.
The Analytical Skills Development Courses are aimed at facilitating the development of skills relating to the analysis of chemicals which are relevant to the Convention.
The OPCW Associate Programme provides specialised training in modern industrial practices and skills development to chemists and engineers from Member States where economies are developing. Industrial training and project work provide insights into best practice methodology in the safe management of chemicals and in the implementation of the Convention.
The OPCW supports the exchange of scientific and technical information among Member States to promote the peaceful uses of chemistry.
The Conference Support Programme is aimed at providing financial support for organising conferences, workshops and seminars on special topics, relevant to the Convention, and in particular to facilitate the attendance at such events by scientists and other scientific/technical personnel from Member States who are involved in the development and application of chemistry for peaceful purposes.
A variety of research projects in Member State whose economies are developing are also funded in part by the OPCW. Research in any of the following areas may be considered for financial support: environmentally sound technologies for the destruction of hazardous chemicals, analytical methods relating to toxic chemicals, safer alternatives to Scheduled chemicals, medical treatment for accidental exposure to hazardous chemicals, and practical applications of chemistry in industrial, agricultural, medical, pharmaceutical or other peaceful purposes.
Similarly, internships which would enable additional experience to be gained in advanced institutions in areas relating to analytical methodologies, validation techniques for toxic chemicals, techniques in handling and using toxic chemicals in a safe and environmentally sound manner, verification techniques or any other application of chemistry for purposes not prohibited under the Convention, can also be supported under the Internship Support Programme.
The Laboratory Assistance Programme is aimed at improving the technical competence of laboratories in developing countries. Analytical laboratories which have already an adequate infrastructure but which could benefit from an increased level of technical competence to promote economic and technological development, can apply for the support.