Comment by tine: this can only be a first step, the goal is clear: Dissolution of NATO – for solidarity, sustainability and disarmament

As leaders from NATO states prepare for a summit in Brussels on 14 June, ICAN has released a major report arguing that members of the transatlantic alliance should embrace the UN Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons, which entered into force this January.

ICAN is calling on NATO to take steps to become a “non-nuclear alliance”, in line with its own objectives and the new norm set by the United Nations. Further, those NATO members that are ready to join the TPNW should be free to do so, without fear of repercussions from their nuclear-armed allies.

https://www.icanw.org/report_nato_tpnw (Why NATO members should join the UN Ban on Nuclear Weapons) 

The report highlights the widespread support for the TPNW within many NATO states, as evidenced by public opinion polls, parliamentary resolutions, political party declarations, and statements from past leaders.

All the best,

Tim Wright

Treaty Coordinator, ICAN

Key conclusions

• NATO has long recognised the threat that nuclear weapons and other weapons of mass destruction pose to its security. Rising tensions and risks are only increasing the incentives for disarmament.

• Instead of accelerating its efforts to advance nuclear disarmament, NATO has been moving in the opposite direction – contrary to its own objectives, and undermining its own security.

• The Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons is now a permanent part of international law, and enjoys broad global support. NATO’s hostility towards it is directly contrary to its own interests.

• By joining the TPNW, NATO members can help to strengthen barriers against proliferation, open up pathways for disarmament, and assist victims of nuclear testing.

• While NATO as an alliance remains firmly opposed to the TPNW, there is strong and growing support for it within many NATO states.

• Much of the opposition to the TPNW, including from NATO states, is based on myths and misconceptions, as well as deliberate falsehoods.

• While total elimination of nuclear weapons may remain a distant goal, envisioning and planning for NATO as a “non-nuclear alliance” should begin now – in line with the new global norm.

Support for the TPNW within NATO

• Opinion polls in 11 NATO states have shown overwhelming public support for joining the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons.

• More than 50 former leaders, foreign ministers, and defence ministers – including two who served as NATO secretaries general – have implored current leaders to “show courage and boldness” and join the TPNW.

• Parliaments, including in Italy, the Netherlands, and Spain, have conveyed their broad support for the TPNW and called for executive action.

• More than a thousand parliamentarians in NATO states have pledged to work to bring their respective countries on board.

• More than 400 cities in NATO states, including Paris, Berlin, Amsterdam, Oslo, Barcelona, Edinburgh, Los Angeles, and Washington DC, have urged their respective national governments to ratify the TPNW.