Creating a nuclear weapons and weapons of mass destruction free zone (NWFZ/ WMDFZ) in the Middle East is a promising goal. The recent chemical weapons attack on Syrian citizens highlighted the need for regional diplomacy and better protection of civilians. The Global Governance Institute advocates re-launching negotiations regarding a WMD free zone in the Middle East. It is crucial to take these steps at this moment in time. The obstacles are considerable, but the benefits far outweigh the costs. Increased trust among states in a fragile region, additional protection for citizens and a binding agreement promoting peace are possible if an eight-step roadmap is followed. Written by the Italian Ambassador to Switzerland and previous Permanent Representative to the Disarmament Conference in Geneva, Cosimo Risi, this ‘view from practice’ provides insights on how to advance an ambitious multilateral proposal.
