2003:02PU Danger of Nuclear Weapons Readiness
Whereas:
- Several thousand nuclear warheads are poised and ready for "Launch on Warning," meaning the receiving country must launch a counterattack before the attacking bombs explode, leaving no time for reconsideration or negotiation.
- An estimated 200 to 300 nuclear warheads could bring the world as we know it to a standstill, resulting in millions of deaths.
- The National Missile Defence (NMD), also known as "Star Wars II," planned by the United States, is an expensive and unproductive plan that diverts resources from societal betterment.
- The Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty (CTBT) bans nuclear weapons test explosions and establishes an international monitoring system with on-site inspections. However, key countries like the United States, China, India, Pakistan, and North Korea have not signed it, although Canada has.
- In November 2001, the United Nations General Assembly voted on resolutions for Launch on Warning, the National Missile Defence Treaty, and the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty, with many countries advocating for a nuclear-free world.
Resolved:
- The National Council of Women of Canada adopts as its policy:
- (a) Support for the 1996 ruling of the International Court of Justice stating that all countries have an obligation under international law to conclude negotiations to eliminate nuclear weapons.
- (b) Support for strengthening international treaties that prohibit the militarization of space.
- (c) Support for encouraging and persuading countries such as Pakistan, India, North Korea, and the United States to sign and actively support the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty.
- (d) Utilize their ability to make representations to the International Council of Women, urging them to advocate for a nuclear-free world on behalf of women globally.