Msgr. Robert Murphy, chargé d’affaires of the Permanent Observer Mission of the Holy See to the United Nations, addressed a UN meeting on the International Day against Nuclear Tests.

Msgr. Murphy lamented the “deleterious effects of ionizing radiation resulting from such explosions, which have a disproportionate impact on women, girls, and the unborn. In the Pacific, on the steppe, in the arctic, and in desert environs, local populations—almost always indigenous communities or non-self-governing peoples—witnessed helplessly as nuclear testing contaminated the natural surroundings that enabled them to be nourished and kept healthy.”

“This contamination coincided with land confiscation, forced displacement, the desecration of cultural heritage, and debilitating public health issues, including birth defects, leukemia, and thyroid disease,” he added.