Training in chemical weapons verification

Description What is done in the programme or project and why, what results are pursued, who benefits from the activities and who are involved in the implementation.

VERIFIN, the National Authority of Finland, has organized internationally recognized, high-quality training for chemists and experts from developing countries since 1990. The Finnish Institute for Verification of the Chemical Weapons Convention, VERIFIN manages Training in Chemical Weapons Verification” project for years 2021-2023. The objective of the project is to strengthen analytical capacity of chemists and experts in developing countries as well as laboratory capacity in Tanzania and Nepal. The purpose of the training is to strengthen knowledge and skills in analytical chemistry for the verification of chemical weapons and thus further the implementation of the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) nationally. The project aims at enhancing laboratories capacity, safety and management as well as improving chemists’ analytical capacities, understanding of Chemical Weapons Convention and its implementation. Training of trainers is a key element of the project, which multiplies positive effect of the project in the country level. Furthermore, the project strengthens expertise in the field of environmental protection, food security and good governance. By increasing awareness of the CWC and sound management of chemicals security will be strengthened and sustainable development supported nationally, regionally and globally. VERIFIN will collaborate with laboratories in Tanzania and Kenia, which are both Finland’s long-term development partner countries. VERIFIN will also continue providing training to participants from countries listed in the OECD/DAC list of ODA recipients. Three year project totals 1 350 000 euros.