The first meeting of the Open-Ended Working Group (OEWG) on the Global Framework on Chemicals (GFC) was held in Punta del Este, Uruguay, from 23–27 June 2025, bringing together government representatives, intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations, including the Coalition Clean Baltic representative, the private sector, youth, and academia. This marked the first global gathering since the GFC was adopted at the Fifth International Conference on Chemicals Management (ICCM5) in 2023.

The primary focus of OEWG-1 was to take stock of progress since ICCM5 and to discuss how best to operationalize the framework’s goals. Participants exchanged views on implementation needs and priorities, as well as preparatory work for the first International conference of GFC, expected in 2026.

Advancing Implementation Programmes Across Key Sectors

A central discussion point was the development of terms of reference (ToR) for three Implementation Programmes under the GFC. One of these programmes will include sector-specific sub-programmes, aiming to promote safer chemicals management practices in industries such as electronics, textiles, health care, and construction. The intent is to support sector-wide engagement, innovation, and accountability in reducing chemical risks.

Delegates also addressed the selection and future treatment of chemical Issues of Concern (IoCs)  -  substances or groups of substances that require global attention, e.g. lead in paints, highly hazardous pesticides, environmentally persistent pharmaceutical pollutants, and others). While there was broad support for retaining all currently recognized IoCs, discussions highlighted the need for clear criteria, dedicated workplans, and adequate resourcing to ensure each IoC is actively addressed rather than left unresolved.

Financing as a Cornerstone of Effective Implementation

Discussions made clear that successful implementation of the GFC will require adequate, sustained, and predictable financial resources.

The meeting explored the operation of the GFC Fund, with particular attention to how it might be improved to ensure equitable access to financial resources, especially for low- and middle-income countries. Ideas for a resource mobilization strategy were also shared, with many participants emphasizing the importance of sustained public and private sector contributions.

There was significant support for applying the “polluter pays” principle, ensuring that industries contributing to chemical pollution take financial responsibility for managing its impacts. The intersessional work ahead of COP1 will be critical for shaping a robust financing mechanism that matches the framework’s ambition.

Global Alliance on Highly Hazardous Pesticides launched

A major milestone from the meeting was the launch of the Global Alliance on Highly Hazardous Pesticides (HHPs). This new initiative aims to promote international collaboration, knowledge exchange, and support for safer alternatives, including agroecological approaches that reduce reliance on harmful substances in agriculture.

Regional Perspectives: Implications for the Baltic Sea

“For the Baltic Sea region, chemicals management remains a critical environmental and public health issue”, commented Eugeniy Lobanov, Leader of the Hazardous Substances Working Area at Coalition Clean Baltic. “Implementation of the GFC provides an opportunity to reinforce regional actions under the HELCOM Baltic Sea Action Plan, especially concerning the reduction of hazardous substances entering the marine environment, e.g., pharmaceutical pollutants”.

It is important that Baltic Sea countries actively contribute to the GFC’s development and ensure regional priorities are reflected in global strategies.

To read summary report of OEWG 1.

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Article written by Eugeniy Lobanov, CCB Hazardous Substances Working Area Leader

Photos by IISD/ENB - Natalia Mroz