In 2004, two major conventions came into force which control production and trade of the most toxic pesticides. Together with existing international instruments, they aim to reduce the risks posed by pesticides, and encourage governments to improve chemical management - especially in developing countries. Some of the key initiatives and conventions include: Rotterdam Convention on Prior Informed Consent Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants Secretariat of the Basel Convention International Labour Organisation conventions protecting agricultural workers Inter-governmental Forum for Chemical Safety Strategic Approach to International Chemicals Management  Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations - particularly the Code of Conduct
Boy and father mix pesticides with no protection - a common cause of accidents (Ethiopia)

Theoretically at least, the tools are there to stop some of the estimated 3 million pesticide-related deaths a year, and prevent some of the environmental contamination caused by persistent, mobile, bio-accumulative toxins used to control pests in poor countries.

However chemical safety and pesticide regulation is often not a development priority. This means that while action is being taken internationally, a lack of capacity and action at the national level hinders progress with the implementation of the international initiatives, and can result in not much change at country level.

Table showing P&P participating country decisions on import of chemicals under PIC