Site Preparations for On-Site Inspections Under the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC)

The Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) entered into force in April 1997. Inspections began at declared U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) facilities in June. Site preparation began long before entry into force. Tabletop exercises and mock inspections were conducted at many sites, and very careful analyses were performed to assure that sensitive and classified information would not be compromised and that the U.S. could demonstrate compliance with the CWC. Even after careful planning was performed, issues arose at many sites during the conduct of the baseline inspections. These issues may have been related to access to parts of facilities, how inspectors would perform there verification activities, or the specific use of equipment at the site. In general, these issues were resolved, and inspections were completed allowing the U.S. to demonstrate that it was in full compliance with the CWC at the inspected sites. However, many issues still exist for routine and challenge inspections, to include communication, budget, training, and emerging technologies. This paper will discuss experiences during the baseline inspection from the view of the escorts and site personnel, and will highlight many of the issues yet to be resolved.