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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 nonproliferation 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.
November 2003.
One of the signatories was Professor Joseph Camilleri, President of Pax
Christi Australia
For other signatories see
http://www.zero-nukes.org/moralappeal-signers.html
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