Swiss Diplomat Sabrina Dallafior to Lead Global Fight Against Chemical Weapons
Swiss Ambassador Sabrina Dallafior has been named the new Director-General of the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW). Her four-year term begins on July 25, 2026, marking the first time a Swiss woman has held this position. The appointment highlights Switzerland’s strong reputation in global disarmament efforts.
Dallafior currently serves as Switzerland’s Ambassador to Finland. In her new role, she will lead the OPCW’s Technical Secretariat in The Hague, overseeing both day-to-day operations and long-term strategy. Her responsibilities will include supporting member states in enforcing the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC), which bans the development, production, and use of chemical arms.
The CWC covers four key areas to prevent the spread of such weapons. Dallafior’s appointment follows strong backing from the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA), which championed her candidacy. Switzerland’s Spiez Laboratory, a world-leading facility under the Federal Office for Civil Protection (BABS), is also part of the OPCW’s network of designated labs. This lab plays a key role in investigating alleged chemical and biological weapon use under the United Nations Secretary-General’s Mechanism (UNSGM).
Her selection reflects Switzerland’s long-standing commitment to the CWC and its global standing in chemical disarmament.
Dallafior’s leadership at the OPCW will begin in mid-2026. She will work closely with member states to uphold the Chemical Weapons Convention. The role also strengthens Switzerland’s influence in international arms control.
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