Day of Remembrance for all Victims of Chemical Warfare

Day of Remembrance for All Victims of Chemical Warfare is commemorated on November 30th around the world. People gather to remember those who perished in chemical warfare and to raise awareness of the issues related to the elimination of chemical weapons, as their use is prohibited by international law.

History

The holiday was first established in 2005 and was supported by the United Nations. In 1997, the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons was founded to focus attention on the issue and avert further development of chemical warfare. Germany was the first to use chemical weapons in 1915, when 168 tons of chlorine gas were released in Belgium. Subsequently, the Soviet Red Army, Italy, Japan, and the United States all employed chemical weapons. A ban on the use of chemical weapons was enacted in 1993, followed by a ban on producing them. The Convention is in effect indefinitely and applies equally to all countries.

Interesting facts

• Chemical weapons are weapons of mass destruction, but are not nuclear weapons.
• They were widely used during World War I.
• Sarin, an organophosphorus chemical agent, was invented during the Great Depression and used during World War II.

How to take part

Find out what events are taking place in your city and attend. Pay tribute to the memory of the victims, spread the word so that the tragedies will not be forgotten, and make a donation to organizations working towards banning chemical weapons.

When is Day of Remembrance for All Victims of Chemical Warfare in 2024?

Day of Remembrance for All Victims of Chemical Warfare is observed on November 30 each year.

Observations