Establishing nuclear-free zone

Excluding atomic and thermonuclear weapons from a region. The distribution and use of nuclear weapons are limited to certain areas of the world.

The first nuclear-free zone was applied in the International Antarctic Treaty of 1959 which prohibits nuclear explosions and burial of radioactive material in the Antarctic. In November 1961 The United Nations General Assembly adopted a special resolution to make Africa a nuclear-free zone and in 1964 at its 19th session it adopted a resolution declaring Latin America a nuclear-free zone. Many other areas have been proposed: Central Europe, the Mediterranean Basin, and the Indian Ocean.

An agreement to create a nuclear-weapon-free zone already exists for the south-west Pacific, but its implementation has been delayed by the objections of the nuclear powers, especially France, which undertakes tests in this region.

1. In view of the practical difficulties involved in reconciling the vast differences in circumstances and interests that exist between regions, an approach that combines a global declaration with region-by-region negotiations offers the best hope of creating a nuclear-free world.

1. Nuclear warfare is such that the original location of weapons is irrelevant.

2. Enforcement of nuclear-free zones is problematic.

1. Establishing zones of peace
2. Establishing specially regulated zones
3. Demilitarizing a territory
4. Campaigning for nuclear disarmament

1. Providing security assurances for non-nuclear weapon states
2. Protecting global environment
3. Controlling availability of arms

1. Campaigning against nuclear developments