DYB2011-Part-II-web

Biological and chemical weapons
Prior to the Seventh Review Conference, the Unit took part in and
organized several events and workshops involving discussions on the Review
Conference and the future of the Convention.
The ISU report also provided details of the submission of information
under the CBMs. Recent years had seen an increase in levels of participation in
this international transparency exercise, peaking in 2010 at 72 States parties.
Participation dropped slightly in 2011 to 69 States parties, representing about
42 per cent of the membership of the BWC (see figure I).
Figure I. Confidence-building measures participation since
1987 inception
38.6
No. of States parties participating Percentage of States parties participating
In the discussions during the Seventh Review Conference, including
those following the presentation of the report of the ISU, States parties
acknowledged the important role the Unit played in supporting their efforts in
all of the areas identified in the mandate of the ISU. The Conference decided
to extend the mandate of the ISU, mutatis mutandis, for the period 2012-2016.
Update of the roster of experts and laboratories
The United Nations Secretary-General’s Mechanism for investigation of
alleged use of chemical, biological or toxin weapons was developed in the
late 1980s, pursuant to United Nations General Assembly resolutions. The
General Assembly, in resolution 42/37 C of 27 November 1987, authorized
the Secretary-General to carry out investigations in response to reports that
may be brought to his attention by any Member State concerning possible
use of these weapons. In order to carry out investigations of alleged use, the
Secretary-General maintains lists of experts and laboratories with a wide scope
of expertise, skills and technical capabilities. Member States have nominated
experts and laboratories to be placed on the Secretary-General’s roster. The
United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA) is facilitating the
28.1
41.8
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