PSR Delegation Attends the TPNW 3MSP in New York! March 20, 2025

During the first week of March, PSR participated in the Third Meeting of States Parties (3MSP) to the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW) at the United Nations in New York City. PSR’s delegation joined leaders, advocates, and survivors to advance the urgent need for nuclear disarmament and provide civil society health perspectives at this conference. The conference reaffirmed that nuclear deterrence is a dangerous and illegitimate strategy, underscoring the existential threat posed by nuclear weapons. During the meeting, delegates committed to expanding support for the TPNW, now having 94 signatories and 73 states parties. Efforts are ongoing to engage more governments by demonstrating how the TPNW aligns with existing security frameworks and international law. 

Throughout the week, PSR’s delegation took part in various events that highlighted the need for local engagement with the TPNW, evidence-based policy-making, and the role of youth in amplifying hibakusha voices. Survivors and affected communities played a vital role in shaping the discourse of the meeting, reinforcing the humanitarian case for disarmament. Dr. Ira Helfand spoke at a side event reviewing a new report highlighting the impacts of nuclear weapons on children with Setsuko Thurlow and Tim Wright. Magritte Gordaneer spoke at an event on the role of young people in advancing nuclear disarmament, featuring an intergenerational dialogue with Mr. Jiro Hamasumi, representative of Nihon Hidankyo. PSR delegate Dr. John Reuwer participated in a Korean Victims Tribunal event, which underscored violations of international law during nuclear testing and emphasized the need for accountability. On Tuesday PSR National co-hosted a side event with Back From The Brink, Mayors For Peace, Northwestern University, IPPNW, and ICAN that showcased grassroots strategies for disarmament advocacy featuring numerous mayors and local policy-leaders taking up the cause for nuclear disarmament.

The week highlighted the inspiring presence of youth throughout the meeting and meaningful connections were made amongst the nearly 120 civil society organizations in attendance. After an insightful and inspiring week, PSR is building momentum and working towards the TPNW Review Conference to take place in November of 2026.