The event, chaired by Dr. Paul Walker, Chair of the Chemical Weapons Convention Coalition, brought together distinguished delegates, civil society representatives, and members of the OPCW Technical Secretariat. Dr. Walker highlighted Ambassador Paturej's exceptional contribution to the OPCW's work throughout his career, particularly noting his commitment to consensus-building and pioneering efforts in strengthening civil society engagement with the organization.
U.S. Under Secretary of State for Arms Control and International Security, Ambassador Bonnie Jenkins, delivered remarks praising the author's comprehensive vision for the future of chemical weapons prohibition. She emphasized the continuing importance of maintaining and strengthening the chemical weapons ban, particularly in light of emerging challenges and technologies.
Ambassador Hadi Farjavand of the Islamic Republic of Iran commended the author's role in facilitating consensus within the OPCW. He expressed particular support for one of the book's central themes: the growing convergence between chemical and biological weapons regimes and the need for integrated approaches to address these interconnected challenges.
The book presents innovative solutions for adapting the Chemical Weapons Convention and OPCW to meet 21st-century challenges, including:
- Implementing AI-assisted monitoring and verification systems
- Developing new frameworks for addressing chemical-biological threats
- Strengthening community-based CBRN safety and security programs
- Enhancing investigation and attribution capabilities
- Leveraging the ChemTech Centre for innovation and cooperation.
Based on Ambassador Paturej's three decades of experience as a Polish diplomat, OPCW senior staff member, and Chair of the OPCW Policy Making Organs, the publication advocates for a transformation in how the international community approaches chemical and biological security threats. It emphasizes the importance of whole-society engagement and multilateral cooperation in building comprehensive CBRN resilience.
The book proposes several key initiatives, including an early preparatory process for the 6th CWC Review Conference and the transformation of the OPCW into a comprehensive watchdog for both chemical and biological threats. These proposals reflect the evolving security landscape where chemical and biological weapons threats increasingly intersect.
For more information about the book, please email: info@iccss.eu