- Founded in 1997: OPCW was established to implement the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC), which aims to eliminate chemical weapons.
- Headquarters: Based in The Hague, Netherlands.
- Mission: To promote the destruction of chemical weapons and prevent their proliferation, ensuring global compliance with the CWC.
- Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC): Treaty that outlaws the development, production, and use of chemical weapons. It has 193 member states.
- Verification and Inspections: OPCW conducts inspections of chemical weapons production and storage facilities to ensure compliance with the CWC.
- Chemical Weapons Destruction: Oversees the destruction of chemical weapon stockpiles by member states.
- Technical Assistance: Provides expertise and support to nations affected by chemical weapons use or threats.
- Nobel Peace Prize: The OPCW received the Nobel Peace Prize in 2013 for its efforts in eliminating chemical weapons.
- Global Impact: Works globally with international organizations like the UN and WHO to address chemical weapons risks and promote disarmament.
- Training and Education: Provides capacity building, training, and education on the safe handling of chemicals and chemical disarmament.