On November 2, the Permanent Observer Mission of the Holy See to the United Nations, gave an intervention during the debate of the Fourth Committee of the General Assembly dedicated to Agenda Item 51, entitled “Effects of Atomic Radiation.”

In its statement, the Holy See commended the United Nations Scientific Committee on the Effects of Atomic Radiation (UNSCEAR) for informing the international community of the effects and risks involved with atomic radiation, of the devastation caused by nuclear weapons tests and nuclear accidents, and of the benefits of the peaceful uses of nuclear energy. The Holy See called for the full implementation of the Non-Proliferation Treaty and for improved safety standards that regulate the peaceful uses of nuclear energy, including the safe, secure and permanent disposal of radioactive waste to avoid the accidents that jeopardize the health of humans and the environment.  While peaceful uses of nuclear technology can improve conditions for people in the areas of food and agriculture, it is critical for leaders to work to ensure that the horrors of a nuclear war are never witnessed again.

The statement can be found here.