The arms control agenda at the UN: Breaking new ground or breaking old habits?
- Disarmament Intelligence Review, London (United Kingdom)
The US opposition to debating a new international disarmament agenda for the coming decade seem ill-considered. There is inevitably a handsome majority for disarmament resolutions, especially nuclear disarmament. But to assess a resolution`s significance, it is more important to look at which countries co-sponsored it; whether a resolution did better or worse in previous sessions; and the balance of power on the vote, particularly which states registered votes against. Consensus at the United Nations can be an indication of a significant breakthrough in support of a resolution, which could lead to negotiations and ultimately a new security-enhancing arms control treaty. Alternatively, a UN consensus may simply reflect widespread endorsement of diplomatic rhetoric on an issue that no one wants to be seen as being against, but which is not likely to move forward.
- OSTI ID:
- 535133
- Journal Information:
- Arms Control Today, Vol. 26, Issue 10; Other Information: PBD: Jan-Feb 1997
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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