Pugwash

Pugwash is an international movement of scientists and others with a professional concern about the social impact of science and seeking ways to prevent its misuse. Particular attention is given to prohibiting weapons of mass destruction (nuclear, chemical, biological); to the solution of conflict without resort to force; to the creation of a sustainable environment; and to bettering the conditions of life of all people.

By providing a channel of communications between influential scientists and scholars from East and West during the Cold War period, Pugwash was able to facilitate better understanding between the adversaries. These contacts helped to make possible agreement on important issues, such as the Partial Test Ban Treaty, the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, the Anti-Ballistic Missile Treaty and the Biological Weapons Convention. It has contributed to large reduction in nuclear arsenals, the Chemical Weapons Convention and the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty. However, much still needs to be done to secure peace in the world.

The British Pugwash Group holds seminars and public meetings on relevant international and UK topics. It nominates participants from the UK for international workshops and conferences. The Group also runs research projects and issues publications aiming to inform public opinion and to influence Government policy, especially on international security issues. Membership is open to anyone living in the UK and qualified by profession or experience to contribute to the work of Pugwash.