Information exchange
Article 9
1. Each Party shall facilitate or undertake the exchange of information relevant to: (a) the reduction or elimination of the production, use and release of persistent organic pollutants; and (b) alternatives to persistent organic pollutants, including information relating to their risks as well as to their economic and social costs. 2. The Parties shall exchange the information referred to in paragraph 1 directly or through the Secretariat. 3. Each Party shall designate a national focal point for the exchange of such information. 4. The Secretariat shall serve as a clearing-house mechanism for information on persistent organic pollutants, including information provided by Parties, intergovernmental organisations and non-governmental organisations. 5. For the purposes of this Convention, information on health and safety of humans and the environment shall not be regarded as confidential. Parties that exchange other information pursuant to this Convention shall protect any confidential information as mutually agreed.