Quakers urge new Prime Minister to add Australia to the list of those countries committed to the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons

Quakers have written to Anthony Albanese, congratulating him on his election to government and appointment as Prime Minister and urging him to add Australia to the list of signatories to the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons:

Dear Prime Minister,

Congratulations on your election to government and appointment as Prime Minister. Australian Quakers wish you well in your endeavours for peace, and welcome your intention to add Australia to the list of those countries committed to the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons.

The threat of nuclear weapons being used has been heightened recently during the war in Ukraine. For many years, since the formation of the United Nations, Australia has used its good offices internationally to help build a framework of treaties and conventions that reduce the risk of war involving nuclear weapons. However, in recent years that work has been undermined by a failure to join the growing efforts to ban these weapons of mass destruction. This is despite significant public concern for Australia to be more active in promoting disarmament.

We applaud the move by the ALP to accept the treaty, and acknowledge the letter of endorsement from former diplomats who have served Australia well in the cause of peace. We hope the necessary steps to sign and then ratify the treaty will occur as soon as possible.

To view the Letter, go here.

Image: ICAN