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International humanitarian law and policy on

Chemical and biological weapons

The international community banned the use of chemical and biological weapons after the First World War and strengthened the ban in 1972 and 1993 by prohibiting their development, stockpiling and transfer. Advances in science and technology raise concerns that restraints on their use may be ignored or eroded.

Training on chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) hazards hosted by the defense forces of Ireland and organized by the ICRC.

Chemical and biological weapons and international humanitarian law

Today’s advances in life sciences and biotechnology, as well as changes in the security environment, have increased concern that long-standing restraints on the use of chemical and biological weapons may be ignored or eroded.

 

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