11. Over 100 wars, causing a vast toll of human lives, have been fought since 1945 in what is often wrongly called the "post-war" period. The massive arsenals of nuclear, conventional and other weapons threaten the entire human race. Awareness is growing that deterrence based upon weapons of mass destruction cannot be relied upon to preserve peace. The continuing risk of failure is a sufficient reason why the deterrence system must be overcome. Arms spending worldwide consumes vast resources which are needed for development and the protection of the environment. War and the threat of war are features even of the modern world. Prevention of war is one of the most urgent political tasks for governments. National means of defence cannot guarantee safety and security in the modern world; the institution of war must be abolished. An international peace order is required.

next