New York: Izumi Nakamitsu, the UN Under-Secretary-General and High Representative for Disarmament Affairs, emphasized that the rapidly changing geopolitical landscape, coupled with alarming nuclear rhetoric and threats, serves as a critical reminder for nations to actively support the legally binding Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons.
At the third meeting of the States Parties to the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons, held at the UN Headquarters in New York, Nakamitsu voiced her concerns that the current unpredictable circumstances could heighten public anxiety and reinforce the misleading belief that nuclear weapons are the ultimate guarantors of security.
She noted that despite these challenges, there are reasons for optimism, highlighting what she termed "the increasing global awareness of the catastrophic effects of these weapons." The UN official pointed out that the expanding membership of the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons also contributes to this sense of hope.
As of now, 73 States have either ratified or acceded to the treaty, while 94 have signed it, Nakamitsu reported.
The meeting, which will continue until March 7, 2025, addresses the dire risks posed by nuclear conflict to humanity and the severe humanitarian and environmental consequences that may arise. The agenda also includes preparations for the first review conference of the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons, as well as discussions on enhancing the agreement and ensuring its effective implementation.
The participating States are expected to endorse a political declaration prior to the conclusion of this Friday's meeting, demonstrating the international community's dedication to ongoing initiatives aimed at achieving a world devoid of nuclear weapons.
The Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons, which is legally binding, represents the first multilateral convention on nuclear disarmament to be negotiated in over twenty years. It was adopted on July 7, 2017, and came into effect on January 22, 2021.
