Chemical & Biological Weapons: Positions, Prospects and Trends

Abstract

[CBWs are the poor man’s choice of the dreaded Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD’s). These are easy to manufacture and deliver. No high technology is involved. Therefore nations with acute security concerns and limited resources to develop modern weapons opt for CBWs. Terrorists also find these attractive weapons of choice. Despite comprehensive international treaties proscribing CBWs there has been documented use of these weapons in recent times. Pakistan made a policy decision to subscribe to treaties banning CBWs. It has been steadfast in its commitment to not develop, stockpile or use these weapons. Despite some malicious propaganda from hostile quarters Pakistan has never been found in violation of its obligations and has been successful in avoiding censure and opprobrium of the monitoring agencies. Pakistan now needs to move ahead and make futuristic policy choices. It must concentrate on formulating a realistic state policy to develop an effective defense capability, so as to prepare its populace from an untoward CBW attack. – Eds.]