Read on Twitter
So, the #CSP24 decided today to amend the CWC's Annex on Chemicals, by adding the so-called novichok chemicals to Schedule 1. But what does this mean? 1/7
It doesn't mean that the CWC suddenly bans these nerve agents. They already met the definition of a chemical weapon, thanks to the way the Convention was drafted (go General Purpose Criterion!) 2/7
This means that using a novichok as we saw in Salisbury and Amesbury was already prohibited by the CWC. So what's changed? 3/7
First, the main impact of adding chemicals to the CWC's Schedule 1 is that they are now subject to the most stringent verification measures in the CWC. 4/7
States can only have or produce them in quantities and for purposes specifically permitted by the Convention. And the OPCW will systematically verify declared holdings through on-site inspections. 5/7
Second, it is also symbolically important that these chemicals now join the likes of sarin, vx, and sulfur mustard - chemicals whose main purpose is also to maim and kill - on the CWC's schedules. 6/7
Finally, it shows that the CWC's drafters really did future-proof the treaty, by having two provisions - the general purpose criteria and the ability to amend the schedules through a simplified amendment process - that allow it to deal with new challenges as they arise. 7/7
