International Day for the Foundation of the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons

April 29, Tuesday

International Day for the Foundation of the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons
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The International Day of the Establishment of the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons is celebrated annually on April 29. The date is associated with the entry into force of the Chemical Weapons Convention and the creation of the organisation itself.

What is the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons
The Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons, or OPCW, is an international body headquartered in The Hague that oversees the implementation of the Chemical Weapons Convention. Its mission is to achieve the complete elimination of chemical weapons and prevent their re-use.

History of the date
On April 29, 1997, the Chemical Weapons Convention entered into force. On the same day, the OPCW began its work, becoming a key mechanism for international control in the field of disarmament.

Goals and significance of the day
This international day aims to:

* remind of the inadmissibility of the use of chemical weapons
* promote ideas of peace and security
* support international cooperation in disarmament
* raise awareness of the role of the OPCW

Main tasks of the OPCW
The organisation is engaged in:

* overseeing the destruction of chemical weapons stockpiles
* conducting inspections at military and industrial facilities
* promoting the peaceful use of chemistry
* assisting states in case of chemical incidents
* developing international norms against chemical weapons

How this day is celebrated
At both national and international levels, the following take place:

* official events and conferences
* themed lectures and seminars
* educational programs for students and schoolchildren
* publications and campaigns in the media
* commemorative ceremonies at the organisation’s headquarters

Interesting facts

* Most countries in the world are members of the OPCW.
* The organisation was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2013.
* Large stockpiles of chemical weapons have been destroyed under its supervision.
* OPCW inspectors operate in a wide variety of countries and conditions.

Why this day is important today
It reminds us that:

* the threat of chemical weapons use still exists
* international treaties require constant adherence
* security depends on cooperation between states
* the role of science should be directed for the benefit of humanity

How to support the ideas of the day
Even at a personal level, one can:

* learn more about international disarmament efforts
* participate in educational activities
* support initiatives for peace and security
* discuss the importance of banning weapons of mass destruction

The International Day of the Establishment of the OPCW highlights the world community’s commitment to peace, responsibility, and a future free of chemical weapons.
International Day for the Foundation of the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons – days left: 130. Create Countdown to Event

International Day for the Foundation of the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons in other years

International Day for the Foundation of the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons in other countries

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