Chemical Weapons: A Clear And Present Danger

By Ayu Dalita Pendek & Linda Khoo PUTRAJAYA (Malaysia), May 14 (Bernama) -- The deployment of chemical weapons, despite being a remote possibility, remains a clear and present danger. Thus, it is imperative to be vigilant to prevent access to such weapons, said the Secretary General of the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons, Ahmet Uzumcu. He admitted the use of such weapons was quite remote after the introduction of the Geneva Protocol in 1925, which is a treaty prohibiting the use of chemical and biological weapons. Nevertheless, Uzumcu called attention to press reports indicating attempts made by individuals or terrorists to acquire chemical weapons, and remarked that access to these weapons remained a concern. "Fortunately, there has been no serious incident, but as I said, there are some reports – that’s why I think we must be vigilant and try to prevent such access," he told Bernama here. According to Uzumcu, the relevant communities –- including the scientific communities and industrial experts –- should increase their awareness regarding the danger and risk of chemical weapons. "If they are made aware of such risks, then I think, we may be actually assured of the prevention of access to chemical weapons," he observed. He pointed out that the Geneva Protocol did not specifically prohibit the production or stockpiling of hazardous or toxic chemicals meant for peaceful use. However, there is a concern that such materials could fall into the hands of terrorists, unless all the relevant parties continue to take appropriate measures. Uzumcu was here to attend the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) and Chemical Safety and Security Management seminar for Member States in Southeast and South Asia, which started on May 8. The objective of the four-day convention is to promote chemical safety and security management, particularly in the chemical industry. Uzumcu noted that the international community still remembered the horrible chemical weapon attacks launched during World War I, and during the Iran-Iraq war in the 1980s, as well as the sarin gas attack in Tokyo in 1995. "After the Iran-Iraq war, it was decided that chemical weapons should be banned totally, and this has been successfully implemented," he affirmed. A chemical weapon is traditionally defined as a toxic chemical contained in a delivery system such as a bomb or shell. However, in general terms, a chemical weapon is any toxic chemical or its precursor that can cause death, injury, temporary incapacitation or sensory irritation, through its chemical action. According to Uzumcu, the seminar would provide opportunities for the participants to share experiences, exchange views and establish networks. "Malaysia has showed itself as an active member by organising the seminar; it is highly appreciated. We hope it will continue in the future," he said. Uzumcu described Malaysia's strong commitment to the CWC as exemplary, and encouraged Malaysia to share its experience with other state parties. -- BERNAMA