Building robust CBRN forensic and crime scene management skills among OPCW inspectors

The OPCW strengthened its capacity to address CBRN forensic challenges through a targeted training activity, enhancing evidentiary standards and investigative preparedness under the European Union CBRN Centres of Excellence Initiative.

Addressing evolving CBRN forensic challenges

The Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) has strengthened its chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) investigative capacity by expanding forensic awareness across its inspectorate, legal teams, laboratory staff, and programme managers.

As CBRN forensic requirements become increasingly complex, ensuring consistent evidentiary standards and chain-of-custody procedures is essential for credible investigations. To address these challenges, the OPCW, in partnership with the United Nations Interregional Crime and Justice Research Institute (UNICRI), launched a training initiative funded by the European Union and organized within the framework of the European Union CBRN Risk Mitigation Centres of Excellence (CoE) Initiative to reinforce evidentiary integrity and chain-of-custody standards.

From 28-30 April 2026, the OPCW's Centre for Chemistry and Technology hosted a three-day workshop titled "CBRN Forensics and Crime Scene Management in Investigations," bringing together 24 OPCW personnel with the support of four UNICRI experts. The training builds on long-standing cooperation between the OPCW, UNICRI, and the EU CBRN CoE network, which has advanced global capacity-building in CBRN risk mitigation and forensic preparedness. UNICRI's contributions, including its Prosecutor's Guide to Chemical and Biological Crimes, have helped shape shared international approaches to CBRN criminal justice.

The workshop aimed to broaden and consolidate forensic awareness across OPCW divisions. Rather than replacing existing expertise, it reinforced core CBRN forensic principles relevant to chemical weapons investigations and promoted consistent evidentiary standards. The training also supported the harmonisation of practices among inspectors and enhanced readiness for situations where chemical investigations intersect with criminal justice processes.

Strengthening practical forensic skills and coordination

Participants examined the role of CBRN forensic science beyond chemical analysis, including crime scene management, physical evidence handling, multidisciplinary evidence streams, and risk assessment in contaminated or operationally sensitive environments. Practical exercises strengthened competencies in contamination control, inter-agency coordination, and preservation of evidentiary value under operational constraints - key elements for maintaining investigative credibility in sensitive contexts.

The curriculum combined theoretical modules with hands-on activities simulating realistic crime scene scenarios. Topics covered chemical, physical, biological, trace, explosive, ballistic, and digital evidence, along with best practices for documentation, preservation, and transport. UNICRI designed and delivered the programme in close consultation with the OPCW, ensuring alignment with operational, laboratory and legal requirements.

"The content was highly engaging, the perspectives shared were both insightful and thought-provoking, and the integration of real case examples significantly enhanced the learning experience. The practical session was particularly well received and provided valuable hands-on exposure." - OPCW expert

Enhancing capacity and operational impact

The initiative enhanced CBRN forensic knowledge among OPCW personnel, improved coordination between forensic, legal, and operational teams, and reinforced understanding of the roles of relevant international actors. It also delivered a modular training curriculum adaptable for future capacity-building activities, strengthening preparedness for increasingly complex chemical weapons investigations.

"It was particularly encouraging to observe the level of engagement across a diverse audience. Not only inspectors, but also legal officers, laboratory personnel, and other stakeholders derived clear value from the workshop, with many gaining new insights directly applicable to their respective roles" - OPCW expert

Strengthening partnerships for sustainable capacity-building

The training initiative builds on the long-standing partnership between the OPCW, the EU CBRN Centres of Excellence (CoE) Initiative, and UNICRI. This collaboration supports the development of sustainable and interoperable CBRN forensic capacities across regions, enabling effective information-sharing and coordinated responses to chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear threats.

Within this cooperation framework, UNICRI has played a pivotal role as a technical partner and led the design and implementation of specialized activities aimed at strengthening CBRN criminal justice systems and forensic preparedness. Notable achievements include the drafting of the Prosecutor's Guide to Chemical and Biological Crimes, a landmark resource for legal practitioners, and the organization of targeted criminalization workshops in Moldova, Ukraine, the United Arab Emirates, and the Western Balkans. These efforts contribute to a more coherent and effective international approach to investigating and prosecuting CBRN-related crimes.

"Overall, this was an excellent delivery with a strong balance of expertise, practical relevance, and strategic perspective." noted an OPCW expert.

Background

This action was funded by the European Union and implemented within the framework of the EU CBRN CoE programme "From CBRN Crime Scene to Courtroom," which aims to enhance the ability of national authorities to investigate, prosecute and adjudicate crimes involving chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear materials. The programme supports the development of specialised legal expertise and sustainable training capacities within national institutions.

To know more: EU Global Threats Programme - EU CBRN Centres of Excellence Initiative