With reference to 'Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW)', consider the following statements:
- 1.It is an organization of European Union in working relation with NATO and WHO.
- 2.It monitors chemical industry to prevent new weapons from emerging.
- 3.It provides assistance and protection to States (Parties) against chemical weapons threats.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Answer & explanation
Answer: (b) 2 and 3 only
The OPCW, based in The Hague, is the global body that implements the Chemical Weapons Convention (in force since 29 April 1997); its members are States Parties from all over the world, not the European Union. Its work includes inspecting chemical industry so that weapons do not re-emerge, and helping member states protect themselves against chemical attack.
- ✗ 1. The OPCW is the implementing body of a worldwide treaty with 193 Member States today (India is one); it is not an EU agency, and its formal ties are with the United Nations, not NATO.
- ✓ 2. Through declarations and industry inspections under Article VI of the Convention, the OPCW works to prevent the re-emergence of chemical weapons, including by misuse of existing chemical facilities.
- ✓ 3. Article X of the Convention covers assistance and protection: the OPCW helps members build national protection capacity and can send assistance if chemical weapons are used against them.
Remember · OPCW: The Hague; implements the Chemical Weapons Convention (1997); verifies destruction of stockpiles, inspects industry, gives assistance and protection; Nobel Peace Prize 2013.
Sources
- OPCW: About Us ↗ “The Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) is the implementing body for the Chemical Weapons Convention, which entered into force on 29 April 1997.”
- OPCW: Our Work ↗ “Chemical weapons may be produced by repurposing existing chemical facilities or they may be made on a smaller scale in purpose-built laboratories or even domestic settings. … The OPCW works with its Member States to help them protect themselves and their populations against the possibility that chemical weapons may be used against them.”
Question and answer: UPSC's official GS Paper I (2016, Series A) — paper ↗ · answer key ↗. Explanation: Minimalist IAS, checked 30 Sept 2026 (how we verify). ·