NTI strongly supports the proposed UN resolution on Nuclear War Effects and Scientific Research, introduced by Ireland and New Zealand and co-sponsored by a group of 20 states. We urge UN member states—especially the United States and other nuclear-armed states—to vote in support of this timely and important initiative, which calls for the establishment of an independent Scientific Panel on the Effects of Nuclear War, emphasizing the urgent need for a comprehensive, updated scientific assessment of the catastrophic consequences nuclear war would have on humanity.
The last UN study on global nuclear effects was conducted decades ago. Today’s complex global landscape demands a reexamination of the far-reaching and long-term impacts of nuclear use. Recent events, such as extreme weather and a worldwide pandemic, have highlighted the interconnectedness of communities, societies, and economies, as well as the fragility of critical infrastructure and international supply chains. Global systems are interdependent in ways that generate potential for cascading effects, which in case of a nuclear war could impact populations worldwide.
At the same time, the world faces greater risk of nuclear use now than at any time since the Cuban Missile Crisis 62 years ago to the day, driven by escalating geopolitical tensions, regional conflicts, rapid technological advancements, and the erosion of key international norms and agreements. Countries are spending trillions on modernizing nuclear arsenals but little to nothing on understanding their impacts on the world.
The new UN-mandated study would be a critical step towards establishing a common understanding of the full range of humanitarian, environmental, economic, and societal impacts of nuclear war—a matter of universal relevance to all nations. These insights are essential not only for informed nuclear policy and decision-making but also to educate citizens around the world about the risks of a security paradigm that, if it fails, could threaten civilization.
NTI calls upon all nations to actively support this resolution and the future work of the Scientific Panel.
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"Such steps would introduce long-recognized security risks and have the unintended consequence of impeding nuclear energy expansion just as momentum builds for such an outcome," writes NTI Co-Chair and CEO Ernest J. Moniz.
There is a dangerous prospect of a rapid and unpredictable escalation of conflict between the two nuclear-armed countries.
"We encourage leaders around the world to embrace this spirit of cooperation, recognizing that the challenges of nuclear security transcend borders and demand collective action rooted in mutual trust."
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