The Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists advanced its Doomsday Clock to 85 seconds to midnight, the closest it has ever been to symbolic annihilation. The group cited escalating nuclear tensions, climate change, and unregulated artificial intelligence as key threats.
Immediate Action & Core Facts
The clock was moved four seconds closer from its 2023 position of 89 seconds, marking the third time in four years it has advanced. The Bulletin cited rising global aggression among nuclear powers, including the U.S., Russia, and China, as well as the collapse of international cooperation.
The group also highlighted climate disasters—such as droughts, heatwaves, and floods—and the failure of nations to adopt meaningful climate agreements. Additionally, concerns were raised about the misuse of AI in military systems, biotechnology, and disinformation.
Deeper Dive & Context
Nuclear Risks and Geopolitical Tensions
The Bulletin warned of heightened risks of nuclear conflict, citing ongoing wars in Ukraine and the India-Pakistan border, as well as concerns over Iran’s nuclear capabilities. The expiration of the New START treaty between the U.S. and Russia was also noted as a destabilizing factor.
The group emphasized that international trust and cooperation are essential to mitigating risks. “If the world splinters into an us-versus-them approach, it increases the likelihood that we all lose,” said Daniel Holz, chair of the Bulletin’s science and security board.
Climate Change and Policy Failures
The Bulletin criticized global inaction on climate change, particularly highlighting U.S. President Donald Trump’s policies to boost fossil fuels and hinder renewable energy production. The group noted that droughts, heatwaves, and floods linked to global warming are worsening, yet meaningful agreements to combat climate change remain elusive.
AI and Biotechnology Threats
The Bulletin expressed concerns over the unregulated integration of AI into military systems, its potential misuse in biotechnology, and its role in spreading disinformation. The group warned that without adequate controls, AI could exacerbate global risks.
Historical Context
The Doomsday Clock was created in 1947 during the Cold War to symbolize humanity’s proximity to self-destruction. At the end of the Cold War, it was as far as 17 minutes to midnight. In recent years, the clock has been adjusted to reflect rapid global changes, including nuclear risks, climate change, and emerging technologies.
The Bulletin’s announcement comes amid growing global tensions and a lack of coordinated efforts to address existential threats. The group stressed the need for renewed international cooperation to avert catastrophe.