Once again, there is a real conversation happening about nuclear weapons—their role in the world, safety and morality concerns surrounding them, and the potential use of nuclear weapons and/or theft of vulnerable nuclear material.

In the summer of 2009, the U.S. in the World Initiative (USITW) was asked by the Stanley Foundation and others to synthesize, analyze, and develop messaging recommendations based on three recent research projects that examined public opinion on nuclear issues.

As is the case with all things related to policy and politics, much has taken place since these research projects were completed. President Obama, along with the United Nations Security Council member states, have brought nuclear weapons to the forefront of international debate in a manner that has not been seen for more than 20 years. And while peace and security advocates clearly have an ally in President Obama—who has declared that it is US policy to pursue the elimination of all nuclear weapons—there is much work to be done to ensure that this vision becomes a reality.

The recommendations in this report build upon those research projects, insights from leaders of the peace and security community, and other research projects undertaken on behalf of USITW, as well as upon recommendations from U.S. in the World: Talking Global Issues With Americans. The communication advice offered in the report is designed to reach the mainstream American. It is an excellent tool for anyone interested in engaging the public on nuclear issues and having their message be heard.

Below is a summary of key recommendations for advocates. More information on each of these recommendations—including some sample language—can be found in the report.

• Peace and security advocates should work to help the public think about nuclear weapons in a new way.


• Reducing risk should be underscored as the goal of peace and security advocates.


• The Risk Reduction Frame is different from the Safety Frame and there are long-term advantages to starting from the Risk Reduction Frame.


• “Getting to zero” should not be presented as the primary focus of advocates.


• Advocates should be able to describe all of the shorter-term policy goals of the peace and security community as steps to reaching the overarching goal of reducing the risk posed by nuclear weapons.


• When introducing the Risk Reduction Frame, advocates should be focused on the risk posed by nuclear weapons—not just the risk of nuclear terrorism.


• Public skepticism about verification has the potential to cost support even from those who, in principal, are supporters.


• In order to effectively reach the public with these messages, advocates must also understand the public’s perception of peace and security advocates and the role that validators and outside messengers can play.