The United Nations recently backed a proposal from New Zealand and Ireland to create a scientific panel to study the potential effects of nuclear war.
Ireland’s representative to the UN, Fergal Mythen, explained that the last study commissioned by the UN on this topic was done in 1989, and he believes recent advances in science, such as climate and data modelling, could help update and deepen understanding. The proposed 21-member expert panel would examine both the physical impacts and the broader effects on societies.
Supporters hope that the findings could help inform future efforts toward nuclear disarmament and improved arms control. The UN First Committee on Disarmament and International Security passed the resolution by a vote of 144-3, with France, Russia, and the United Kingdom opposing it, and 30 countries abstaining.
Another related resolution was also passed by the committee, encouraging countries, especially those with nuclear weapons, to reduce risks associated with accidental or mistaken use of nuclear weapons. This resolution, which passed with a vote of 145-6, suggests that nuclear-armed countries should avoid aiming weapons at each other and keep them at the lowest possible alert level.
