Regulation of Chemical, Biological and Nuclear Weapons Under International Law

Abstract

The international legal framework that governs the use of chemical, biological, and nuclear weapons i-e Weapons of Mass destruction (WMD) in combat is the subject of this article.  The most common types of weapons of mass destruction are biological, chemical, and nuclear ones. International accords aimed at their non-proliferation and disarmament largely regulate the use of these weapons. Important agreements that set up thorough frameworks for regulating these kinds of weapons are the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) and the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT). The research underscores that while there are comprehensive legal frameworks governing WMD, significant challenges remain in ensuring compliance with IHL principles. The necessity for ongoing dialogue and adaptation within international law is critical as new forms of warfare emerge. Overall, the legality of WMD under international humanitarian law is heavily scrutinized through the lenses of unnecessary suffering and distinction, emphasizing a need for stringent adherence to these humanitarian principles in all military operations involving such weapons.