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53rd Pugwash Conference on Science and World Affairs
Advancing Human Security: The Role of Technology and Politics

Halifax and Pugwash, Nova Scotia, Canada
17-21 July 2003

Your gathering takes place as we grapple with a number of serious issues on the agenda of international peace and security. As we pursue our work in the service of peace, we know that our two institutions have much in common. Both stand for human values that transcend the interests of any one nation state. We stand together in standing for all.

For almost half a century, Pugwash has made a unique contribution by exploring ways to channel the insights and methods of science into the service of the public good, particularly the cause of world peace. I applaud the focus of this years conference on the challenge of advancing human security, which calls for fresh efforts around the globe on a number of fronts: eliminating nuclear weapons and other weapons of mass destruction; curbing the development, production, and export of long-range missiles; banning weapons from space; combating terrorism; addressing threats to the environment; and promoting social and economic development through the prudent use of science and technology. The number of countries represented at this gathering is eloquent testimony of your truly global approach to these and other issues. I thank every one of you for your commitment, and wish you a most stimulating conference.