The first topic we want to focus on is nuclear non-proliferation. With tensions resurfacing over Iran's nuclear ambitions, the rationale for creating a Middle East zone free of weapons of mass destruction has never been greater. This goal, however, seems as distant now as it did 35 years ago, when the idea was first proposed.
While every zone requires complex issues to be addressed, three factors exacerbate these challenges in the Middle East: the history of conflict and tension, the asymmetry of nuclear capabilities and the absence of inclusive regional institutions. These obstacles notwithstanding, the international community has undertaken a renewed push to promote the establishment of a Middle East zone, with a major conference on this issue planned for December 2012.
Prospects for this conference will be discussed by an expert panel of speakers at UN Forum 2012:
- Rt Hon. Margaret Beckett MP, former UK Secretary of State for Foreign & Commonwealth Affairs
- Lord (Des) Browne, former UK Secretary of State for Defence
- Sir Malcolm Rifkind, former UK Secretary of State for Foreign & Commonwealth Affairs
- Baroness (Shirley) Williams, Peer and nuclear non-proliferation expert
To kick start the debate, UNA-UK has released a new report entitled: Towards a more secure and WMD-free Middle East. Written by Mark Fitzpatrick, Director of the Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Programme at the International Institute for Strategic Studies, this report provides ample food for thought on this ever-pressing topic.
Click here to read more and to download the report
What do you think is the biggest obstacle to achieving a nuclear-free Middle East?
- Tweet @UNAUK #UNForum2012
- Email website@una.org.uk with the subject "Forum 2012 ideas"
- Write to UNA-UK, 3 Whitehall Court, London SW1A 2EL
