Updated March 2021 A chemical weapon (CW) is a device designed to release a chemical agent(s) to cause physical harm and potentially death. These chemicals can be divided into categories such as choking, blister, blood, nerve, and riot control agents. CWs can be dispersed using various delivery systems, including grenades, landmines, artillery rounds, rockets, missiles, […]
Fact Sheet: Biological Weapons
Updated March 2021 Biological weapons (BW) are disease-causing organisms and toxins that are designed to harm or kill humans, livestock or crops. Naturally occurring biological agents, like the organisms that cause anthrax, bubonic plague, and smallpox, are manipulated for use in weapons. These weapons can be disseminated in various ways, including through traditional military platforms […]
We are Still Waiting for Real Action on Chemical Weapon Attacks
John A. Gilbert, Scientists Working Group on Biological and Chemical Security Once again, the world is learning about another case of death and profound harm from exposure to chemical weapon (CW) material. On Saturday, June 29, two civilians living a few miles from Salisbury, England were hospitalized after exposure to a nerve agent; one died […]
Russia Calls Accusations That It Was Behind Spy Poisoning a “Fake Story”
Greg Koblentz, member of the Scientists Working Group, was interviewed by Al-Jazeera discussing what should be considered when determining who is behind a chemical attack or use of nerve agent. Click on the image below to take you to the video.
Why the Russian Chemical Weapon Used to Poison an Ex-Spy Isn’t Banned
John Gilbert, member of the Scientists Working Group, spoke to Vice for an article and short video regarding nerve agents, specifically the Novichok family. “The so-called Novichok agents were deliberately made through a chemical production path that does not use internationally controlled chemicals,” said John Gilbert, a senior science fellow at the Center for Arms […]