Strengthening Structures for the Biological and Toxic Weapons Convention: Options for Remedying the Institutional Deficit

Compared with most other multilateral treaties for arms control & disarmament & notably its "nearest neighbour," the Chemical Weapons Convention, the Biological & Toxic Weapons Convention (BTWC) suffers from an institutional deficit. Structures are needed to strengthen the BTWC, to channel collective support for this relatively fragile treaty regime & to enable states parties to work together more effectively in the common interest. The Sixth Review Conference should afford a good opportunity to exchange views on such strengthening structures. This article analyses different options for remedying the institutional deficit, starting with a long-term prospect & working back to more immediate options. Adapted from the source document.