Pax Christi British section welcome the presentation today of a draft text for a treaty that will prohibit nuclear weapons. (22 May 2017). Here you can read statement from Pax Christi International
The draft was presented President of the negotiations, Ambassador Elayne Whyte of Costa Rica at the UN in Geneva. A copy of the draft can be found here. Pax Christi sections around the world have supported the first round of negotiations which began in March at the UN in New York urging their Governments to participate in this world-changing opportunity. Tragically the British Government was not even at the table and it is unlikely that they will be there when talks resume to review the draft treaty in June.
Pat Gaffney, General Secretary of Pax Christi said: “This is one of the most important opportunities of our time. We need to change the narrative about security in this country. I am not want to hear that strong political leadership demands a person who would be willing to destroy God’s creation by unleashing nuclear war on the planet – a war in which there would only be losers. Good political leadership requires a person who seeks the common good – for all, not just our own nation. Good political leadership sees security in terms of dialogue and cooperation with others – the more than 158 countries who are working for a nuclear ban treaty. A key question to all election candidates should be: would your party be willing to support and participate in negotiations for a nuclear weapon ban treaty.?
- Read message sent by Pope Francis to the opening meeting in March.
- Four calls to Governments: from Pax Christi International
