The hope for an end to the arms race at the conclusion of the Cold War and the beginning of the new millennium have been overshadowed by new and ongoing conflicts, increased military budgets, development of new weapons and their delivery systems, the continued sale and transfer of weapons and systems, and the weakening of long-standing efforts in the international community for arms control and disarmament. More than ten trillion dollars has been spent on military expenditures since the end of the Cold War. More than $100 million dollars are expended each day on nuclear weapons alone. Neither the security among states nor the capacity to overcome terrorism is advanced by these dangerous trends. In fact, the dangers of widespread warfare resulting in mass destruction both through conventional and unconventional weapons are rising, not diminishing. All who value human life have a responsibility to change this course quickly. The gravity of risk posed by nuclear weapons makes it incumbent upon us to act.

At this critical time, Religions for Peace calls upon all religious and spiritually aware people and their communities, as key instruments of civil society, to promote arms control and disarmament through their own structures and in cooperation with other organizations. It calls upon governments and intergovernmental bodies at all levels to pursue substantial reductions in military spending with increased support for domestic and international programs designed to improve human security.

Only through an affirmation of our most fundamental human values and a renewed commitment to the wellbeing of all humanity can security be restored and hope fulfilled. We ask you to join us in this work.