Chemical weapons (CW) are among the most gruesome means of warfare humans ever invented. This learning unit introduces CW and their effects, reviews the evolution of the norm against chemical weapons until the present day, and assesses the feasibility of a world without chemical weapons in the 21st century.

After completing this learning unit, you will

• understand the nature of chemical weapons and their effects on humans, animals and the environment.
• understand the technical foundations of CW.
• be familiar with the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) and other relevant international treaties
• understand the current nature of the CW challenge, including
  • dual-use issues relating to civilian research, development and production activities
  • legitimate and illegitimate uses of irritants (e.g., riot control agents)
  • terrorism,
  • chemical security and safety.
• have an overview of EU policies in support of the CWC and the norm against CW.
• have background knowledge on CW use in Syria and the international response to a major violation of the norm against CW.