The BWC bans the use, production, acquisition, transfer, stockpiling and retention of biological and toxin weapons. The text of the treaty, available on the official United Nations BWC website at www.unog.ch/bwc, reads as follows:
Article I: Never under any circumstances to acquire or retain biological weapons. Article II: To destroy or divert to peaceful purposes biological weapons and associate
d resources prior to joining. Article III: Not to transfer, or in any way assist, encourage or induce anyone else to acquire or retain biological weapons. Article IV: To take any national measures necessary to implement the provisions of the BWC domestically. Article V: To consult bilaterally and multilaterally to solve any problems with the implemenation of the BWC. Article VI: To request the UN Security Council to investigate alleged breaches of the BWC and to comply with its subsequent decisions. Article VII: To assist States which have been exposed to a danger as a result of a violation of the BWC. Article X: To do all of the above in a way that encourages the peaceful uses of biological science and technology
