Topic: 2025 – No First Use Policies and Nuclear Disarmament
Country: Switzerland
Delegate Name: Kenna Charbauski
Disarmament & International Security Committee
No First Use Policies and Nuclear Disarmament
Switzerland
Kenna Charbauski
Forest Hills Northern High School
The existence of nuclear weapons serves as a constant underlying threat to all nations of the world. Over 12,000 atomic warheads lie in wait, many in military stockpiles with the ability to unleash mass destruction at any point. This threat to global security must be addressed delicately, balancing state security and humanitarian concerns. The United Nations (UN) has met previously on these issues, yet few substantive steps towards disarmament have been taken. Switzerland urges fellow states to join in the current agreements and implement those policies, rather than look for a new solution.
Since the first global meeting on nuclear disarmament, Switzerland has been actively involved in efforts for global peace. Switzerland ratified the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) in 1977 and implemented its recommendations internally. Similarly, Switzerland ratified the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty. However, Switzerland is not a party to the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW) as it may undermine national security in the context of a European war. The treaty does not clearly list prohibitions and practical disarmament steps, possibly imposing restrictions on peaceful nuclear energy use and research. Additionally, it is necessary that states’ cooperation in terms of Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear Defense is not intruded on. This may pose a risk to state security and yield little improvement. The TPNW also does not make significant improvements in addressing the humanitarian consequences of nuclear warfare. Nuclear weapons cannot be used in any method that complies with international humanitarian law. Their building, testing, and detonation all pose a significant risk to life. A treaty is needed that facilitates state partnership, the sending of aid, and assistance in humanitarian efforts after nuclear detonation.
Nuclear weapons need a globally applicable regulation like that which is currently imposed on chemical and biological weapons. The TPNW is intended to do this, but Switzerland cannot support it due to some of its glaring issues. The state of Switzerland hopes to develop a resolution that will meet the needs of member states that do and don’t possess nuclear weapons alike. Switzerland recommends this include increased incentives for No First Use Policies, practical steps for government led disarmament, and clauses that meet the concerns of nations currently abstaining from passing treaties on the topic. As a committee, DISEC will need to move forward with caution and not rush to pass a plan. It is important to reinforce the NPT, not propose a weaker norm. Switzerland shares the goals of a world free of nuclear weapons with many other states. It is imperative that the resolution passed is comprehensive and legally binding in a way that will protect all nations.
