This workshop on Policy and Diplomacy for Scientists is organised in partnership with the Technical Secretariat of the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) and will take place at the OPCW Centre for Chemistry and Technology in the Netherlands from 26 to 29 May 2026.
Support for participation in the workshop by experts from developing BWC States Parties is part of Norway’s offer of assistance under Article X of the Convention.
Background
Science and technology are central to the implementation of the Biological Weapons Convention (BWC) and Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC). The two conventions have a shared history, having been negotiated in the framework of the Conference on Disarmament and with roots in the 1925 Geneva Protocol. In line with Article X of the BWC and Article XI of the CWC, advances in science and technology must be used exclusively for peaceful purposes, and any misuse of such advances that would be contrary to the object and purpose of these conventions must be prevented. Given the overlap between the two conventions, particularly with respect to toxins, and the increasing convergence of biological and chemical sciences, a coordinated and multidisciplinary approach is needed to promote cooperation and the exchange of best practices at the national, regional and international levels.
Objectives
The workshop aims to bridge the gap between scientists and policymakers to promote the responsible and sustainable use of scientific knowledge. It will provide a forum for scientists to learn about the role of science in fostering global peace and security, with a focus on disarmament and non-proliferation. The workshop will cover policy, diplomacy, and scientific advances related to the BWC and the CWC and will foster dialogue on the role of scientists in implementing these treaties and the challenges involved. Additionally, the workshop will address cross-cutting issues, including sustainability, ethics and codes of conduct for practitioners, and the promotion of biological and chemical safety and security in support of the BWC and the CWC.
By the end of the workshop, participants will be able to:
- Explaining the objectives and key provisions of the Biological Weapons Convention (BWC) and the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC), and describing the role of science diplomacy in supporting their implementation;
- Describing the mandates and activities of the BWC Implementation Support Unit (BWC ISU) in promoting the peaceful uses of biology, and of the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) in promoting the peaceful uses of chemistry;
- Understanding advances in science and technology, including emerging and cross-cutting developments, and analyzing their implications for disarmament and non-proliferation regimes, particularly under the BWC and CWC frameworks;
- Understanding the convergence of biology and chemistry and considering its relevance for the effective implementation of the BWC and CWC;
- Identifying and discussing challenges related to dual-use research, emerging technologies (including artificial intelligence), and industry engagement, with particular attention to the chemical and biotechnology sectors; and
- Applying ethical principles and codes of conduct in chemistry and biology to support responsible science and compliance with the BWC and the CWC.
Important Notice
Eligibility
The workshop is open to scientists from BWC States Parties in the OECD/DAC list of ODA recipient countries.
Applicants must hold one of the following:
- Master’s degree in a relevant scientific, technical, or engineering field; or
- PhD in natural sciences (e.g., biology, chemistry) or a related field
Registration
- The deadline for the submission of applications is 6 March 2026.
- States Parties are requested to inform the BWC ISU, by means of a note verbale, of their endorsed nominee(s) for the workshop.
- Registration must be completed through http://www.disarmamenteducation.org/joint-bwc-isu-opcw-workshop-on-polic...
- Please note that funding from Norway allows sponsorship for up to 12 selected applicants from BWC States Parties. The sponsorship will cover an economy class flight ticket, accommodation and an adjusted daily subsistence allowance.
