WHY THE WAR ON IRAQ IS A WARNING FOR THE PLANET

Introduction

War is probably the most direct example of the contentious use of science and technology. As has already been expressed, Scientists for Global Responsibility (SGR) opposes the unilateral pre-emptive military action against Iraq, or indeed any state, on the basis that it is an aggressive act and therefore illegal, fundamentally unethical and in breach of the UN Charter.

SGR also supports efforts to halt the use and development of weapons of mass destruction (WMD). The justification provided by the US and UK for this particular war — to free the people of Iraq from a brutal dictator and to stem the development and supply of weapons of mass destruction — creates an ethical maze through which a clear path can be hard to find without scrutinising information not readily available to the public. For this reason SGR presents here an analysis of the policies and strategies that have led to this situation, mostly US-originated, as an aid to clarification of the broader forces at work.

In so doing, SGR intends to bring an independent perspective that reflects its concern for the grave implications that these policies and trends have for the development of a sustainable future, both in terms of justice and peace in human society and of the long-term well being of the wider environment. It is SGR’s understanding that the far-reaching implications of the motives for this war will profoundly undermine such goals. We are extremely concerned about this situation and keen to encourage others to become informed and speak out against it.

Find out more about:

• Background to the war on Iraq
• Underlying motives and objectives of the US administration
• The economic reality
• The real costs
• The Wiser Way

Philip Webber and Vanessa Spedding, March 27, 2003

with contributions from Stuart Parkinson and Eva Novotny.