December 10, 2017

The Nobel Peace Prize was awarded to the International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons (ICAN) for its work to draw attention to the catastrophic humanitarian consequences of any use of nuclear weapons and for its groundbreaking efforts to achieve a treaty-based prohibition of such weapons.

Oslo, Norway | Nobel Committee

Watercolor painting based depiction of The Nobel Peace Prize was awarded to the International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons (ICAN) for its work to draw attention to the catastrophic humanitarian consequences of any use of nuclear weapons and for its groundbreaking efforts to achieve a treaty-based prohibition of such weapons. (2017)

Nobel Peace Prize Awarded to ICAN - October 12, 2017

On October 12, 2017, the Nobel Peace Prize was awarded to the International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons (ICAN). This recognition was given for ICAN’s significant efforts in highlighting the catastrophic humanitarian consequences of nuclear weapons use and for its pioneering work towards achieving a treaty-based prohibition of these weapons.

Background

ICAN was founded in 2007 and is a coalition of non-governmental organizations in over 100 countries. Its mission is to promote adherence to and implementation of the United Nations Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons, which was adopted in July 2017. The treaty represents a landmark in international disarmament efforts, aiming to eliminate nuclear weapons by making their use, development, and possession illegal under international law.

Key Contributions

  • Humanitarian Focus: ICAN has been instrumental in shifting the global conversation about nuclear weapons from a security-based perspective to one focused on humanitarian impact. This approach emphasizes the indiscriminate and devastating effects of nuclear weapons on human life and the environment.

  • Advocacy and Mobilization: The organization has successfully mobilized civil society and engaged with governments to support the treaty. ICAN’s advocacy efforts have been crucial in bringing together a diverse coalition of states, international organizations, and civil society groups to push for nuclear disarmament.

  • Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons: ICAN played a pivotal role in the negotiations leading to the adoption of this treaty. The treaty was endorsed by 122 countries at the United Nations and represents a significant step towards the goal of a nuclear-free world.

Significance

The awarding of the Nobel Peace Prize to ICAN underscores the importance of civil society in advancing global disarmament efforts. It highlights the potential for grassroots movements to influence international policy and achieve significant milestones in the pursuit of global peace and security.

Aftermath

Following the award, ICAN continued to advocate for the ratification and implementation of the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons. The Nobel Peace Prize brought increased visibility to their cause, encouraging more countries to consider joining the treaty and reinforcing the global norm against nuclear weapons.

In summary, the Nobel Peace Prize awarded to ICAN in 2017 recognized the organization’s vital role in advocating for nuclear disarmament and its success in fostering a global movement towards a world free of nuclear weapons.

Source: www.nobelprize.org

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