Alva Myrdal: A Pioneer in Nuclear Disarmament

This book is about the importance of nuclear disarmament and the work pursued by Alva Myrdal, a pioneering social activist, diplomat, cabinet minister, and disarmament negotiator. She was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1982 together with Alfonso García Robles „for their work for disarmament and nuclear and weapon-free zones“. Prominent academics, politicians and practitioners have contributed reflections on Myrdal’s achievements and their impact on the world today. Furthermore, a sample of Myrdal’s own writings on nuclear disarmament are included, as well as significant speeches and a bibliography of her publications on nuclear matters.

Alva Myrdal was born in Uppsala, Sweden, in 1902, graduated from college in Stockholm in 1924, and continued higher education at Uppsala University in the 1930s. She was a prolific author and reformer, specializing in social affairs, women’s roles and nuclear disarmament. She was Sweden’s Ambassador to India in the 1950s, for Nuclear Disarmament in the 1960s and 1970s, and a member of the Cabinet 1967-1973. Her most well-known works are „The Game of Disarmament“ (1976), „Nation and Family“ (1941), and "Women's Two Roles„ (1956, with Viola Klein). Her book “The Game of Disarmament" (1976) is a key work in disarmament.

The Alva Myrdal Centre for Nuclear Disarmament was set up at Uppsala University in 2021 to contribute new ideas and concrete measures towards the elimination of nuclear weapons. Both editors are associated with the Centre, Professor Peter Wallensteen as a member of the board and leader of one of its working groups, and Dr. Armend Bekaj as a researcher.

- This book is relevant for students of international relations and policy-makers on issues of peace and conflict.

- It provides background documentation on the difficulties in achieving disarmament.

- It illustrates the significant role women can play to infuse new ideas into a men’s world.

- It displays the importance of persistence, rationality, ingenuity and knowledge in furthering nuclear disarmament.

- It shows that Alva Myrdal’s efforts can be an inspiration for new generations.