Catholics Unite to Demand Global Nuclear Disarmament

This article discusses the urgent need for nuclear disarmament, highlighting the devastating potential of modern nuclear weapons and the persistent dangers of nuclear proliferation.

The piece features insights from Dr. Ira Helfand, a former president of International Physicians for the Prevention of Nuclear War and part of the International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons (ICAN). Helfand emphasizes the immense destructive power of current nuclear weapons, stating that a strike on major cities like New York or Moscow could result in 12-15 million deaths in under an hour. He warns that a large-scale conflict between nuclear powers like the US and Russia or China could lead to the deaths of 200-300 million people in a single afternoon. Helfand urges citizens to advocate for nuclear disarmament and reminds leaders of the consensus reached by Ronald Reagan and Mikhail Gorbachev that genuine security lies in disarmament,lamenting the US withdrawal from the INF Treaty.

Melissa Parke, ICAN’s Executive Director, calls for “truth telling” from the US government regarding the impacts of nuclear testing and growth, seeking an apology and a recognition that nuclear weapons do not enhance national security. She argues that disarmament is not utopian but an existential imperative for global security, advocating for common security over mutual destruction. Parke also points to the UN Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW) as a legally binding instrument for total elimination, noting that while 94 countries have signed it, the US actively discourages other nations from supporting it.

The article also touches on the role of faith in the disarmament movement. The Holy See was an early signatory to the TPNW. Archbishop john C. Wester of Santa Fe acknowledges Pope Francis’ stance on the immorality of nuclear weapons and the Vatican’s support for their banning. Though,he notes the complexity at the parish level,where some may perceive speaking out on nuclear weapons as a political stance,despite the call to “speak the truth.” He emphasizes that fear can be a factor for the faithful. The archbishop concludes the event with a prayer for peace and for leaders to act with care and concern for all, especially the vulnerable.

The article implicitly frames the discussion around the idea that nuclear weapons have not been used in active warfare as World War II, but the potential for their use, even accidentally or through escalation, remains a grave threat. The inclusion of the US strike on Iranian nuclear facilities in the context of Iran’s conflict with Israel and tensions between India and Pakistan suggests a concern about the increasing risk of nuclear escalation in various geopolitical situations.

How does the Catholic Church‘s stance on nuclear disarmament relate to the principle of the dignity of the human person?

The Moral Imperative of Nuclear Abolition

For decades, the Catholic Church has consistently voiced opposition to nuclear weapons, framing their existence and potential use as fundamentally incompatible with core tenets of the faith. This stance isn’t new; it’s deeply rooted in Catholic social teaching, emphasizing the dignity of the human person, the sanctity of life, and the pursuit of peace. Recent movements demonstrate a renewed and unified call from Catholics worldwide for complete nuclear disarmament. This surge in activism is driven by escalating geopolitical tensions and a perceived increase in the risk of nuclear conflict. key terms driving this movement include nuclear non-proliferation, peacebuilding, and ethical foreign policy.

Historical Church Teachings on Nuclear Weapons

The Catholic Church’s opposition to nuclear weapons has evolved over time, but the core message remains consistent.

Pope John XXIII’s Pacem in Terris (1963): This encyclical, released during the Cuban Missile Crisis, was a landmark statement. It argued that peace is not merely the absence of war, but the presence of justice, and that the arms race was a grave threat to humanity. It laid the groundwork for future papal statements on arms control.

Pope Paul VI: Continued to advocate for disarmament and emphasized the moral duty of nations to pursue peace.

Pope John Paul II: Strongly condemned the possession and use of nuclear weapons, calling them “instruments of terror” and advocating for a “world without weapons.” He frequently highlighted the catastrophic humanitarian consequences of nuclear war.

Pope Benedict XVI: Reiterated the Church’s commitment to nuclear disarmament, emphasizing the need for a new approach to international security based on dialog and cooperation.

Pope Francis: Has been the most vocal recent papal voice, consistently denouncing the “madness” of nuclear weapons and calling for their total abolition. His 2017 address to the UN, and subsequent statements, have been particularly impactful, urging nations to adhere to the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW).

The Rise of Catholic-Led Activism

The call for nuclear abolition isn’t solely coming from the Vatican. Grassroots movements are gaining momentum globally.

Pax Christi International: A Catholic peace movement with a long history of advocating for disarmament and nonviolence. They actively campaign for the TPNW and organize protests and educational initiatives.

The Catholic Nonviolence Initiative: Focuses on promoting the practice of nonviolence within the Catholic Church and advocating for policies that align with Gospel values, including nuclear disarmament.

International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons (ICAN): While not exclusively Catholic, ICAN has strong Catholic support and was awarded the Nobel Peace prize in 2017 for its work to secure the TPNW. Many Catholic organizations actively collaborate with ICAN.

Local Diocesan Initiatives: Across the world,dioceses are organizing prayer vigils,educational programs,and letter-writing campaigns to raise awareness about the dangers of nuclear weapons and advocate for disarmament.

Key Arguments for Nuclear Disarmament from a Catholic Viewpoint

The Catholic argument for nuclear disarmament rests on several interconnected principles:

The Dignity of the Human Person: Nuclear weapons are inherently incompatible with the inherent dignity of every human being. Their use would result in unimaginable suffering and loss of life.

The Common Good: The pursuit of nuclear weapons undermines the common good by diverting resources from essential social programs and creating a climate of fear and distrust.

Solidarity: Nuclear weapons pose a threat to all of humanity, irrespective of nationality or belief. Disarmament requires global solidarity and cooperation.

Just War Theory: The traditional Catholic doctrine of Just War Theory is increasingly seen as inapplicable to nuclear weapons. The principle of proportionality, in particular, is difficult to reconcile with the potential for catastrophic consequences. The concept of deterrence theory is also heavily scrutinized.

Stewardship of Creation: The environmental consequences of nuclear war would be devastating, impacting future generations and violating our responsibility to care for God’s creation.

The Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW) and Catholic Support

the TPNW, adopted in 2017 and entering into force in 2021, represents a meaningful milestone in the global disarmament movement.It prohibits the development, testing, production, stockpiling, transfer, use, and threat of use of nuclear weapons.

Vatican’s Support: The Holy See was a key advocate for the TPNW during its negotiation and has as signed and ratified the treaty. pope Francis has repeatedly urged all nations to join the treaty.

Challenges to Universal Adoption: Despite the TPNW’s moral force,it has not been universally adopted. Nuclear weapon states and their allies have largely refused to sign the treaty, arguing that it undermines existing arms control agreements.

* The Role of Catholic Diplomacy: Catholic organizations and leaders are actively engaging in diplomatic efforts to encourage more nations to join the TPNW and to promote dialogue on nuclear disarmament.

Practical Steps for Catholics to Advocate for Disarmament

Individuals can contribute