Proclamation of November 30th as a memorial Day of Remembrance for all Victims of Chemical Warfare.

The 20th Session of the Conference of the States Parties to the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) took place from November 30 to December 4, 2015, in The Hague, Netherlands. The Conference of the States Parties decided that a memorial Day of Remembrance for all Victims of Chemical Warfare would be observed on  November 30th each year or, when appropriate, on the first day of the regular session of the Conference. The Key outcomes included the adoption of the 2016 program and budget for the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), and decisions on a new Annual Day of Remembrance for all Victims of Chemical Warfare to be observed starting in 2016. The session also included discussions on the progress of chemical weapons destruction, international cooperation, and the establishment of an Advisory Board on Education and Outreach.

Key decisions and outcomes

 The session adopted the OPCW's program and budget for the upcoming year. A proposal was made to establish this board to advise on the OPCW's education and outreach activities. Delegates were briefed on the progress of chemical weapons stockpile destruction, including the completion of activities at four facilities in the Russian Federation. Discussions were held regarding promoting ethical guidelines for scientists and engineers to ensure knowledge and technology are not used for purposes prohibited by the CWC.

Session Dates: November 30 to December 4, 2015.
Location: World Forum Convention Center in The Hague, Netherlands.
Chairperson: H.E. Ambassador Eduardo Ibarrola-Nicolin of Mexico.
Participation: 134 of the 192 States Parties participated, along with observers from other organizations.