UN Secretary-General Calls for Global Action to Eliminate Chemical Weapons

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged the international community on Saturday, November 30, to take decisive action against chemical weapons, coinciding with the Day of Remembrance for All Victims of Chemical Warfare, Jurist News reported yesterday.

Guterres highlighted the complete destruction of declared chemical weapons stockpiles over the past year but cautioned about a resurgence in their use, particularly due to advancements in science and technology.

He emphasized the need for unity in reaffirming commitment to the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC), which prohibits the development, production, and use of chemical weapons. Despite these prohibitions, Ukraine reported 815 violations by Russia in February 2024. The OPCW, responsible for enforcing the CWC, continues to advocate for global cooperation to eliminate these threats.

Established by the UN in 2005, the Day of Remembrance serves as a reminder of the ongoing fight against weapons of mass destruction and the importance of peace and security worldwide.