Campaigns against Nuclear Disarmament AGM

Saturday 18th October 2008

As my first chance to network, I attended the AGM of Campaigns against Nuclear Disarmament (CND) held at Westminster University, London.

I felt somewhat intimidated that I was one of the very few young people amongst the crowd. The AGM wasn't as busy as I had expected, considering how internationally established the organisation is. I was really there to help at the WILPF stall, to meet other organisations lobbying against nuclear arms. I came across organisations who were much more specialised to nuclear disarmament than WILPF.

It was interesting to witness how much emphasis CND has on America policy for nuclear arms. No doubt, the US has major influence in the development of nuclear arms, stimulating countries like Russia and China to de-develop and improve their weapons. Nevertheless, concentrating on the home front, grassroot campaigning in lobbying and writing to our own government is very important in swaying any change in foreign policy. Strong campaigns from grassroots can be linked with local issues and will help promote our campaigns well before the coming European and General Elections.

We need more young people to lobby and join these organisations. Surely, I can't be the only 23 year old to care about these issues...?