THE HAGUE, Netherlands–16 March 2022–On this solemn occasion, the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) remembers the victims of the horrific events that occurred in Halabja 34 years ago.
On this day in 1988, thousands of innocent residents in Halabja were killed in one of the worst chemical weapons attacks against civilians anywhere in the 20th century.
The OPCW has long honoured the memory of those who perished by paying tribute to them each year, as well as maintaining a monument on its grounds.
These moments allow us to remember not only the victims of Halabja, but also all the victims of chemical warfare.
Their inhumane suffering reminds the international community that chemical weapons must never again be used anywhere, by anyone, regardless of the circumstances.
Accordingly, we remain steadfast in our common commitment to ensuring the full and effective implementation of the Chemical Weapons Convention.
This April, we commemorate the 25th anniversary of its entry into force.
Such milestones offer us the opportunity to reaffirm our solid determination to prevent past tragedies like the one that befell Halabja and redouble our efforts to work together for a world free of chemical weapons.
This constitutes a shared responsibility and an enduring moral imperative.
We owe it to all victims of chemical weapons use.