THE HAGUE, Netherlands – 17 October 2019 – The Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) invites representatives of media organisations to apply for accreditation to attend the Twenty-Fourth Session of the Conference of the States Parties (CSP-24). The Conference will take place from Monday, 25 November through Friday, 29 November at the World Forum in The Hague, Netherlands.
The Conference of the States Parties provides an excellent opportunity for members of the press to learn more about and report on the history, legacy, achievements and challenges ahead for the Chemical Weapons Convention and the OPCW. A rich community of experts, practitioners, officials, and people whose lives have been impacted by chemical weapons are present during the Conference. There is also a variety of exhibits and side events about issues related to the Chemical Weapons Convention.
Key dates for media accreditation
Application Opens: 17 October 2019
Application Deadline: 16:00 CET, 21 November 2019
Accreditation Decision: Communicated on a rolling basis; 22 November 2019 at the latest
Who is eligible for media accreditation?
Media accreditation is strictly reserved for professional members of the press who represent a bona fide media organisation with a proven track record of reporting. Details about eligibility criteria for applicants can be found on the CSP-24 Media webpage.
Applications are considered on a case-by-case basis and the decisions of OPCW Public Affairs are final.
OPCW Public Affairs reserves the right to deny or withdraw accreditation of representatives of media organisations whose activities abuse the privileges so extended, or put the accreditation to improper use, or act in a way not consistent with the principles of the OPCW.
How do I obtain accreditation?
You must apply for accreditation through the OPCW Media Accreditation form. The application is open from 17 October 2019 until 16:00 CET, 21 November 2019. This is the only official channel to obtain registration for the media.
The Secretariat is not able to process applications sent by any other method, including e-mails, letters, or requests made through embassies.
Details about conference access, media requests, equipment and facilities can be found on the CSP-24 Media webpage.
Apply Now
Deadline 16:00 CET, 21 November 2019
About the Conference
The Conference of the States Parties consists of all 193 Member States of the OPCW each of which has one vote. As the principal organ of the Organisation, it has the general power to oversee the implementation of the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC), and to act to promote the object and purpose of the Convention. The CSP oversees the implementation of the CWC, promotes the treaty’s objectives and reviews compliance with the treaty. The CSP meets annually for one week in The Hague. During CSP-24, States Parties are expected to assess the implementation of the Convention, and to approve the programme and budget of the OPCW for 2020.
States Parties are anticipated to offer recommendations for enhancing the OPCW’s work in the areas of verification, assistance and protection, international cooperation, capacity development, and outreach.
Conference Highlights
Monday, 25 November
OPCW-The Hague Award Ceremony
17:20, King Willem Alexander Theatre, World Forum
In 2013, OPCW was awarded the Noble Peace Prize in recognition of its extensive efforts to eliminate chemical weapons. To preserve the legacy of this achievement, the OPCW established the OPCW-The Hague Award in collaboration with the Municipality of The Hague in 2014.
The OPCW-The Hague Award recognises individuals and institutions that have made an outstanding contribution towards the goal of a world permanently free of chemical weapons.
Monday, 25 November
OPCW Director-General’s Reception
18:00, Delegates Lounge, OPCW Headquarters
The OPCW Director-General invites all participants of the Conference, including members of the media, to the opening reception.
Friday, 29 November
Day of Remembrance for All Victims of Chemical Warfare Ceremony
9:00, Ieper Room, OPCW Headquarters
The Day of Remembrance for All Victims of Chemical Warfare serves as a reminder that chemical weapons have yet to be consigned to the past and still inflict enormous human suffering. The OPCW will pay homage to all victims of chemical warfare and reaffirm its commitment to uphold the global norm against these reprehensible weapons.
During the ceremony—at which representatives of the victims’ associations participate as guests of honour—the OPCW Member States renew their resolve to achieve a world truly free of chemical weapons. This tribute event includes commemoratory statements followed by a wreath laying at the Memorial for All Victims of Chemical Weapons located outside of the OPCW memorial garden.
Throughout the Conference
Side Events
States Parties, International Organisations, Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs), and the OPCW Technical Secretariat will organise a variety of side events that showcase success stories, highlight important issues, provide trainings, spotlight challenges, and more. A schedule of side events will be posted in the venue during the Conference.
Exhibitions
Throughout the Conference exhibits will be provided by a large number of NGOs and several States Parties. These exhibits can offer insights into various issues connected to CWC implementation.
Background
As the implementing body for the Chemical Weapons Convention, the OPCW, with its 193 Member States, oversees the global endeavour to permanently eliminate chemical weapons. Since the Convention’s entry into force in 1997, it is the most successful disarmament treaty eliminating an entire class of weapons of mass destruction.
Over 97% 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 Peace Prize.