|
A
Moral Appeal for a Safer World without Nuclear Weapons
WE
THE UNDERSIGNED believe that nuclear weapons, whether
possessed by states or terrorist organizations, are inherently
immoral. Therefore, they should be totally and irrevocably
eliminated.
Immorality.
As instruments of mass destruction, nuclear weapons cannot
be morally justified. If used, nuclear weapons would inevitably
kill thousands, possibly millions, of innocent people. They
would cause devastating harm to the environment near and far.
Multiple use would endanger the existence of life on Earth.
Even so-called "mini-nukes" and "bunker-busters" would have
disastrous effects. Threatened use of nuclear weapons in the
name of deterrence is morally wrong because it holds innocent
people hostage for political and military purposes.
Dangers
of proliferation. Continued possession of nuclear weapons
by a few privileged nations gives them legitimacy and encourages
other nations and terrorist organizations to acquire them.
Emerging policies to develop new kinds of nuclear weapons,
resume testing, and envision new roles for nuclear weapons,
even pre-emptive use, seriously increase this danger. Opposition
to terrorism requires a strong, integrated program of nuclear
non-proliferation and disarmament.
Call
for Action
Nuclear
weapons cannot be used in any manner consistent with moral
principles, civilized values, and humanitarian law. Therefore,
as a matter of conscience and a concern for the future of
humankind:
1) We
call upon all States possessing these horrific devices
a)
to pledge not to use them, and also
b)
to promptly embark upon an unequivocal undertaking for the
total elimination of their nuclear arsenals promised pursuant
to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty and consistent with
the International Court of Justice.
2) We
call upon all who have ambitions to develop or acquire nuclear
weapons to cease this quest.
3) We
call upon all members of the international community to carry
out an enhanced nuclear non-proliferation program to prevent
any nation or organization from developing or acquiring nuclear
weapons.
Our
Commitment
We pledge
to reflect, study, and actively work in our own communities
and institutions to advance the cause of the moral imperative
of the elimination of nuclear weapons.
List
of signers
|
