The Rotterdam Convention is an international treaty aimed at promoting shared responsibility in the trade of hazardous chemicals and pesticides. It helps countries make informed decisions about importing these substances by requiring exporters to provide essential information about their risks and safe handling. Established in 1998 and entering into force in 2004, the convention facilitates the exchange of information between countries. It also encourages the use of the Prior Informed Consent (PIC) procedure, which ensures that countries can consent to or refuse the import of certain hazardous chemicals based on their own regulations and safety standards.