Over 50 nations sign nuclear weapons ban treaty on first day of signatures
Sep. 21, 2017
According to Kyodo News and other wire services, a signing ceremony for the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons was held at United Nations headquarters in New York on September 20. On the first day alone, more than 50 countries signed the treaty, which will enter into force 90 days after 50 countries have ratified it. Thailand, Guyana, and the Vatican have submitted their documents of ratification to the U.N. This marks substantial progress toward the treaty’s entry into force.
However, the nuclear powers and countries that rely on the U.S. nuclear umbrella have indicated that they will not sign the treaty. Reflecting concerns over North Korea’s efforts to develop its missiles and nuclear weapons, more voices are expressing support for the idea of nuclear deterrence. In reality, many obstacles must be overcome before its effectiveness is strengthened with the involvement of the nuclear weapon states. It is important that the survivors of the Hiroshima and Nagasaki A-bombings continue to convey their messages and that NGOs like Mayors for Peace work to mobilize public opinion for the abolition of nuclear arms.
However, the nuclear powers and countries that rely on the U.S. nuclear umbrella have indicated that they will not sign the treaty. Reflecting concerns over North Korea’s efforts to develop its missiles and nuclear weapons, more voices are expressing support for the idea of nuclear deterrence. In reality, many obstacles must be overcome before its effectiveness is strengthened with the involvement of the nuclear weapon states. It is important that the survivors of the Hiroshima and Nagasaki A-bombings continue to convey their messages and that NGOs like Mayors for Peace work to mobilize public opinion for the abolition of nuclear arms.
