Atlanta, GA -- When you hear "Jane Goodall," think of a growing worldwide movement to abolish nuclear weapons. Why? Because, Dr. Goodall believes, all life on earth hangs in the balance. "We humans have put ourselves in a position where on many levels, we can change the environment to suit our own purposes. So we have a real responsibility to use our incredibly complex language to share information, teach children with positive stories, provide hope by helping people understand what they can do to make the world better," she says.

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This is why she has joined forces with the Global Security Institute (GSI) to support the strengthening and renewal of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) when it comes up for its 5-year review in May, 2005.

"The story of the nuclear non-proliferation treaty is a tremendously positive story," Jonathan Granoff, GSI's President, continues. "The nations of the world entered into the treaty (except for three -- India, Israel and Pakistan) and the treaty has worked enormously well. We do NOT have dozens of nuclear weapons states. Absent this particular treaty, I don't think we'd BE here."

The treaty has a core bargain and it's very easy to understand, Mr. Granoff and Dr. Goodall report.

"Countries are asked to forego developing nuclear weapons. The promise from the nuclear weapons states is that they would negotiate the elimination of nuclear weapons. Now countries extremely friendly to the United States are stepping forward and saying, 'Fulfill the bargain. Live up to your promises. We know it can't be done overnight, but promise us that you won't test any more of these. Promise us that any agreements between you and Russia are verifiable and irreversible. Live up to your promises.'" Under the U.S. Constitution, attorney Granoff reminds us, treaties are the supreme law of the land. "When we violate a treaty, we are violating our own American foundation document."

Dr. Goodall calls us all to act on behalf of life on earth instead of being paralyzed by the justifiable terror of nuclear war. She sees four reasons to be hopeful for the future.

"First, the human brain which has created so much of the technology that is destroying the planet also created the most amazing things to improve the quality of life. Now we're beginning to get together around the planet to try and solve some of the harms we've inflicted on Mother Earth.

"Secondly, the resiliency of nature. We can destroy a place and give it time and some help and once again it can become beautiful. Animal species on the very brink of extinction can be given a second chance.

"Thirdly, the tremendous enthusiasm, dedication, power and courage of children. Young people. Once they know what the problems are and they are empowered to act, they see that what they are doing is making a difference and know that people all around the world are doing the same.

"And finally, what I call the indomitable human spirit. People who tackle seemingly totally impossible problems, don't give up and amazingly, succeed or blaze a trail for others to follow. Dedicated, passionate people have been gathering again and again and again for 35 years to discuss the abolition of nuclear weapons. They're not going to give up now. And there are things we ALL can do," Dr. Goodall concludes.

© 2005 Paula J. Gordon
This program was recorded January 28, 2005, at The Carter Center in Atlanta, GA, USA.