High-Level Segment of the Conference on Disarmament

President, Excellencies, Distinguished Delegates,

I am pleased to address the Conference on Disarmament at this year’s high-level segment. Sweden fully aligns itself with the statement to be delivered on behalf of the European Union. I would like to make the following national remarks.

President,

Some of the crucial milestones of the international disarmament and non-proliferation architecture have been agreed right here, by our predecessors, in the Conference on Disarmament.

Yet, for well over two decades the CD has not seen any major negotiations take place. In fact, the CD has neither been able to agree on a true Programme of Work nor reach consensus on updating the Rules of Procedure to make them gender neutral and in line with the 21st century. These shortcomings are not a foregone conclusion nor are they a result of poor efforts. It is due to the lack of political will.

We cannot disregard the unprecedented events marking the opening of this year’s session of the CD when 16 observer requests were blocked from the participation. This situation is deeply troubling and goes against the core principle of multilateralism.

It's up to us to break this vicious circle and allow the Conference to advance on substance. The credibility of the disarmament architecture and the Conference as a whole is at stake.

President,

The Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) remains the cornerstone of the global disarmament and non-proliferation regime. Sweden will continue to promote the full implementation of all obligations of the NPT, including Article VI. Concrete progress is needed more than ever if we are to reach the ultimate goal of achieving a world free of nuclear weapons.

Sweden was disappointed by the outcome of the First Session of the Preparatory Committee last year. Still, the useful exchanges there and during the Working Group on further strengthening the NPT are welcome steps that can pave the way for concrete progress.

Reducing the risk of nuclear weapons use is urgent and of outmost importance. In this regard, transparency, accountability, and other confidence building measures can decrease tensions, increase trust, and dispel misconceptions, thus improving the conditions for disarmament as well as complement disarmament efforts.  

Through the Stockholm Initiative for Nuclear Disarmament, Sweden together with a cross regional group of partners, has underlined the necessity of further progress in disarmament. Stressing that disarmament commitments from earlier NPT review conferences remain valid, the Initiative has put forward proposals to mobilize political support and advance on disarmament.

We must not take the NPT for granted but instead harness the strength of our joint commitments and build on prior achievements during this 11th Review Cycle. The upcoming meeting of the Preparatory Committee, later this summer, is an opportunity we must seize.

President,

Just over two years ago Russia launched its illegal, unjustified, and unprovoked war of aggression against Ukraine. Sweden condemns in the strongest terms Russia’s brutal invasion and reaffirms its unwavering support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders.

Russia’s actions are flagrant violations of International Law including the UN Charter and its threats to use nuclear weapons are irresponsible and unacceptable. We are horrified by the systematic targeting of civilians and civilian objects, in complete disregard of International Humanitarian Law. We urge Russia to immediately cease all military activity and withdraw its troops from the entire territory of Ukraine.

President,

Since last October, we are witnessing developments in the Middle East that are deeply worrying. Sweden supports Israel's legitimate right to defend itself against Hamas in accordance with international law including international humanitarian law. All hostages must be released immediately and unconditionally. In view of the catastrophic situation in Gaza, Sweden believes that a humanitarian ceasefire is necessary and we, as well as the EU, see no other peaceful way forward than a negotiated two-state solution, where Israel and Palestine can coexist in peace and security.

President,

International peace and security are the responsibility of all states. Yet, Nuclear Weapons States bear a special responsibility for nuclear arms control and disarmament. We recognize the constructive approach taken by the US, UK and France to avoid nuclear escalation. We welcome the efforts of the US to resume activities within the New START Treaty and to launch negotiations on a new arms control framework. At the same time, we deeply regret the announcement that Russia suspends its engagement in the Treaty, and we call on Russia to reconsider its decision.

The entry-into-force of the Comprehensive Nuclear Test-Ban Treaty and the conclusion of negotiations of a Fissile Material Cut-off Treaty remain tasks for the international community to deliver on. Sweden urges all remaining annex 2 states to ratify the CTBT and we condemn the unprecedented decision of Russia to revoke its ratification of the CTBT. Pending entry-into-force, existing moratoria on nuclear test explosions must be maintained. In addition, and pending an FMCT in force, we call on all States concerned, including China, to declare and uphold an immediate moratorium on the production of fissile material for nuclear weapons or other explosive devices.

President,

Sweden regards outer space as a global common, to be used for the benefit of all, and underlines the applicability of international law, including the UN Charter, to all activities in outer space. Sweden is strongly committed to safeguarding the long-term use of the space environment for peaceful purposes and to prevent an arms race in outer space.

We continue to work with partners to reduce space threats and promote a responsible use of space, both in multilateral settings and bilaterally. Sweden supports the efforts in the UN disarmament forums to advance norms, rules and principles of responsible behaviour in outer space while not excluding a future new legally binding agreement.

President,

Our work on arms control, disarmament and non-proliferation does not exist in a vacuum. Therefore, we must continue to engage the younger generation, stand up for gender equality as well as the right of civil society to participate in our joint efforts without undue restrictions and make their voices heard.

In conclusion, in the deteriorating security environment we find ourselves today, we must be ambitious but realistic. It’s time for the CD to take its responsibility, show political will and overcome the divide that has marked our work in the past years. We are ready to do our part.

Thank you.