For information only – not an official document
UNIS/SGSM/1550
26 November 2025
Today, we pay tribute to the victims of chemical warfare over the decades.
We also remember the global efforts to end the use of these abhorrent tactics.
This year marks the 100th anniversary of the 1925 Geneva Protocol. A century ago, after witnessing the terrible impact of chemical weapons during World War I, the international community came together to ban their use in war.
The following decades saw remarkable success, including the entry into force of the Chemical Weapons Convention — which now has nearly universal adherence.
Yet our work is not finished. The appalling use of chemical weapons has continued, and rapid developments in science and technology threaten to make their acquisition and use even easier. We cannot allow this to continue.
In the name of all victims of chemical warfare, I urge States to reaffirm their commitment to a world free of these repugnant weapons.
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"In the name of all victims of chemical warfare, I urge States to reaffirm their commitment to a world free of these repugnant weapons." — António Guterres
"On this International Day of Solidarity, let us draw inspiration from the Palestinian people themselves, whose resilience and hope are a testament to the human spirit. Let us stand in solidarity with their rights to dignity, justice and self-determination — and work together to build a peaceful future for all." — António Guterres
The new Permanent Observer of the Council of Europe to the United Nations (Vienna), Gerhard Doujak presented his credentials today to the Acting Director-General of the United Nations Office at Vienna (UNOV), John Brandolino.
The new Permanent Representative of Guatemala to the United Nations (Vienna), Gabriel Orellana Zabalza presented his credentials today to the Acting Director-General of the United Nations Office at Vienna (UNOV), John Brandolino.
