The Doomsday Clock has moved four seconds closer to midnight, now standing at 85 seconds. This marks the closest the clock has ever been in its 80-year history, highlighting the growing global risks facing humanity.
The clock is a symbolic measure created by the Bulletin of Atomic Scientists to show how close the world is to catastrophic events. It aims to alert governments and citizens to take urgent action to prevent disasters.
Why the Clock Moved Forward
Several major global threats pushed the clock closer to midnight. These include:
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Nuclear risks, especially with the NEW START treaty between the U.S. and Russia set to expire soon.
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Climate change and extreme weather events.
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Fast-developing artificial intelligence without proper regulations.
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Biological risks, including the spread of diseases.
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Rise of autocratic governments and increasing misinformation online.
Daniel Holz, chair of the Science and Security Board, said the jump was significant but stressed that action can still turn back the clock.
Nuclear Threats and NEW START Treaty
The NEW START treaty limits nuclear weapons stockpiles of the U.S. and Russia and allows sharing critical information. Its expiration in February 2026 raises fears of an unchecked nuclear arms race.
Experts say extending the treaty is a simple but important step. Jon Wolfsthal, director at the Federation of American Scientists, criticized the lack of action by the current U.S. administration and warned that global security depends on responsible diplomacy.
Climate, AI, and Information Risks
The climate crisis continues to worsen with rising temperatures, floods, and storms worldwide.
Artificial intelligence is developing faster than governments can regulate, creating potential threats to safety and privacy.
Additionally, the spread of false information is a serious concern. Nobel laureate Maria Ressa warned that distinguishing fact from fiction is one of the biggest challenges today.
Why the Clock Matters
The Doomsday Clock is not meant to create fear but to inspire action. It reminds the world that humanity can reduce risks if leaders and citizens act together.
Despite the threats, experts remain optimistic that the clock can be moved back through cooperation, responsible governance, and proactive measures in areas like climate policy, nuclear control, and AI regulation.
Conclusion
The Doomsday Clock at 85 seconds to midnight is a stark warning to the world. Nuclear threats, climate change, AI, and misinformation are all factors pushing humanity closer to catastrophe. However, the symbolic clock also shows that with urgent action and global cooperation, these dangers can be reduced. The message is clear: the future is in our hands.
FAQs
What is the Doomsday Clock?
The Doomsday Clock is a symbolic clock created by the Bulletin of Atomic Scientists. It shows how close humanity is to global catastrophe from threats like nuclear war and climate change.
Why is the clock at 85 seconds to midnight?
The clock moved closer due to growing nuclear risks, climate crises, AI development, biological threats, and misinformation.
What is the NEW START treaty?
It is a nuclear arms control treaty between the U.S. and Russia that limits nuclear weapons and allows information sharing to maintain global safety.
Can the clock be moved back?
Yes, experts say through international cooperation, responsible governance, and active measures in climate, AI, and nuclear policy, humanity can reduce risks.
Who decides the Doomsday Clock time?
The time is set by the Science and Security Board of the Bulletin of Atomic Scientists, including experts in physics, biology, and global security.