Holy See Urges Prioritization of Peace over Nuclear Armament at IAEA Conference
Vienna – Addressing the 69th General Conference of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) on September 16th, Msgr. Daniel Pacho, Undersecretary for Multilateral Affairs at the Vatican Secretariat of State, emphasized the moral necessity of preventing the spread of nuclear weapons and promoting their peaceful applications. He conveyed greetings from Pope Leo XIV to conference participants and expressed the Holy See’s gratitude for the IAEA’s ongoing work, led by Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi, particularly in challenging global circumstances.
Msgr. Pacho highlighted the stark contrast between escalating military spending – specifically on nuclear weapons – and the widespread suffering of populations struggling with basic survival needs. He characterized this prioritization of armament as “an affront to humanity,” warning of the “irreparable and devastating” consequences of a major nuclear conflict and the potential for unprecedented loss of life.
The statement came as the world marks the 80th anniversary of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki,reaffirming the Holy See’s commitment to the foundational principles of the United Nations,the IAEA,and global disarmament efforts. The Vatican maintains that nuclear weapons are inherently incompatible with humanitarian and ethical principles due to their indiscriminate and disproportionate nature, and that their continued possession fuels fear and increases global risk.
Msgr. Pacho stressed the importance of respecting the IAEA’s monitoring and verification activities as crucial for rebuilding trust and fostering dialogue, peace, and security both regionally and globally. He voiced particular concern regarding the ongoing war in Ukraine and the escalating crisis in the Middle East, cautioning that military action targeting Iranian nuclear facilities could further destabilize the region.
Echoing Pope Leo XIV’s call for renewed multilateral diplomacy, the Undersecretary urged a focus on resolving disputes through international institutions and halting the advancement of weapons. He lauded the IAEA as a “model of multilateralism,” particularly vital in a world facing increasing fragmentation.
The Holy See also underscored the importance of utilizing nuclear technologies for peaceful purposes – including advancements in medicine, climate change mitigation, agriculture, water management, and energy production – while emphasizing the need for robust ethical and regulatory frameworks prioritizing safety, transparency, intergenerational justice, and environmental stewardship.
