In this report, technical aspects of importance for the discussion on the status of incapacitating agents vis-á-vis the Chemical Weapons Convention are presented. The biological effects of incapacitating agents are described, and what the technical ground is for their use for law enforcement purposes. Current international legislation on the use of chemicals for incapacitation is discussed, along with some official national statements on the topic. Swedish practice and legislation on the use of chemicals for law enforcement purposes are described. The purpose of the report is to provide a technical background to aid discussions among policy-makers on the subject.