The chemical weapons convention : strategic implications for the United States
Abstract : On January 13, 1993, in Paris, 130 countries signed the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC), to ban the entire class of Chemical Weapons. Debate continues on the strategic implications of the Convention, as drafted, and whether it is in the U.S. national security interest. This paper explores the historical, moral, and legal aspects of chemical warfare, and the strategic implications of the Convention, including operational, policy, constitutional, and industry impact for the U.S. This paper concludes that, although 'imperfect,' the Convention represents a significant contribution to U.S. security objectives, and serves the national interest.
Medical Management of Chemical Toxicity in Pediatrics
Chemical terrorism is the intentional use of toxic chemicals to inflict mass casualties on an unsuspecting population. Use of conventional chemical warfare agents (CWAs) and toxic industrial chemicals by terrorists on a civilian population will quickly overwhelm public health resources and emergency medical services. Toxic chemicals can quickly incapacitate those who are exposed and can lead to mortality if not recognized and treated promptly. In particular, the toxicity of these agents can be increased in children due to their vulnerabilities. While the toxicity and treatment of chemical agents in adult populations have been the focus of numerous reviews, publications, and textbooks, it is critical to recognize the different ways that children may react to toxicity compared to adults. Therapeutic dosing in pediatrics to treat chemical casualties is also different than adult medicine because it is weight based. In this chapter, the chemical threat agents and weapons of opportunity most likely to be used by terrorists to inflict casualties are examined, as well as a brief historical account and unique challenges of managing pediatric chemical casualties. The sections devoted to each chemical agent highlight the pediatric-relevant vulnerabilities and treatment guidelines for medical management. The final two sections of the chapter discuss the decontamination of children and recommendations to help prepare healthcare managers and providers in the event of a chemical event.
Review of Book: The Catholic Tradition of the Law of Nations
AL T H O U G H studies in International L a w have made considerable progress since the War, none of the more famous writers in producing their new editions have even touched upon the attitude or teaching of the Catholic Church i n International affairs, whilst the morality of peace and war is frequently passed over with a rare and remarkable ethical indifference. This is a unique contribution to International L a w and deserves a cordial reception from lawyers and theologians alike. Pre­ pared under the auspices of the Council for International Relations and published on behalf of the Carnegie Endowment for Inter­ national Peace, it justifies fully its claim to be a compendium of Catholic teaching and tradition on International Law. An immense amount of industry and learning has gone to the production of this book. E a c h section is fully documented with extracts from the Popes, Fathers, and contemporary and modern writers, with a clear and concise summary of conclusions at the end of each chapter. Of no less interest and value is the commentary which accompanies these documents. The author has done a great service both to the Church and to the study of Inter­ national Law, and in view of the unsatisfactory treatment i n many text books of the moral theology of war, this book should be consulted by both professor and student.