Every year on 16 March, the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) and the international community mark the anniversary of the chemical attack in Halabja, Iraq on 16 March 1988.
On that day, thousands of men, women, and children, lost their lives in a brutal and horrific attack.
Many more were left with severe and lasting injuries.
The attack remains one of the most tragic and devastating instances of chemical weapons use in modern history and stands as a stark reminder of the devastating human impact of chemical weapons.
Commemorating the victims of Halabja is an important expression of respect and remembrance.
It is also an opportunity to reflect on the global recognition that chemical weapons have no place in the world.
The entry into force of the Chemical Weapons Convention in 1997 represented a decisive step in translating that recognition into binding international law.
With 193 States Parties, the Convention is the most universally accepted disarmament treaty in the world, protecting 98% of the globe's population.
Through this treaty, States Parties commit themselves to the complete prohibition and elimination of chemical weapons.
They also place their trust in the OPCW to uphold the ban against the use of these abhorrent weapons.
Under the Convention's comprehensive verification regime, the OPCW has overseen the destruction of 72,304 metric tonnes of chemical weapons, conducted 4,963 industry inspections, and supported 166 States Parties in adopting national implementing legislation.
Its state-of-the-art Centre for Chemistry and Technology is a vital tool for strengthening global efforts to prevent the use of chemical weapons. It was in recognition of its efforts to rid the world of this entire category of weapons of mass destruction that the OPCW was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2013.
It was in recognition of its efforts to rid the world of this entire category of weapons of mass destruction that the OPCW was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2013.
Regrettably, however, there have been proven instances of use of chemical weapons in recent years.
Moreover, the world is witnessing a growing number of allegations of their use in conflicts across several regions.
In these instances, the OPCW has acted decisively by investigating and identifying perpetrators as well as assisting member states in their national investigations.
The Organisation's actions serve to deter future use and contribute to accountability and justice for victims.
It is through the continuation of all these efforts that we honour the victims of Halabja.
I call on the international community and all member states to renew their commitment to a world free of chemical weapons.
