THE HAGUE, Netherlands — 7 September 2017 — The Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) will open its doors to the general public and the media on Sunday 24 September 2017 between 11:00 and 17:00, as part of the International Open Day organised by The Hague Municipality.
As the OPCW commemorates its 20th Anniversary this year, visitors will experience a self-guided tour that includes learning about the history of chemical warfare and effects of chemical weapons on humans. They may also try on gear used by OPCW inspectors during field missions, and get a photo with the Nobel Peace Prize awarded to the OPCW in 2013 for its extensive efforts in eliminating chemical weapons.
Other highlights of the day include, for the first time, internship presentations, a Colours of Peace drawing session for children and multi-lingual colouring book for our youngest visitors.
International Open Day gives the public the opportunity to learn about the aims and functioning of the various international institutions and non-governmental organisations based in the city. The Hague has been home to OPCW’s headquarters since 1997. The city and its surrounding area are now home to 160 international organisations.
Registration for the public can be done through The Hague International Day website below; online registration closes on Thursday 21 September 2017.
The public can register here: http://www.justpeacethehague.com/en/event/international-open-doors-day
MEDIA ACCREDITATION AND GUIDELINES:
Media are welcome to attend OPCW’s Open Day. To accredit please apply by e-mail to the OPCW Public Affairs Branch at public.affairs@opcw.org , by Thursday 21 September, 18.00, providing first and last names, media outlet name, ID number and information about equipment. Applicants for media accreditation must be in possession of a valid official press credential.
Filming and photography are allowed in the entire Open Day area.
The OPCW Spokesperson will be available for statements during Open Day. Interested media representatives should contact the Public Affairs Branch at public.affairs@opcw.org , stating topics of interest. Requests made in advance are appreciated.
Background
As the implementing body for the Chemical Weapons Convention, the OPCW oversees the global endeavour to permanently eliminate chemical weapons. Since the Convention’s entry into force in 1997 – with its 192 States Parties – it is the most successful disarmament treaty eliminating an entire class of weapons of mass destruction.
To date, 96 per cent of all chemical weapon stockpiles declared by possessor States have been destroyed under OPCW verification. For its extensive efforts in eliminating chemical weapons, the OPCW received the 2013 Nobel Prize for Peace.
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