The Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists has announced a significant adjustment to the Doomsday Clock, setting it at 89 seconds to midnight. This is the closest the clock has ever been to symbolizing an impending apocalypse. Daniel Holz, professor of astronomy and astrophysics at the University of Chicago and chair of the Science and Security Board of the Bulletin, explained that this change reflects insufficient progress on existential risks threatening humanity.
"The world has not made sufficient progress on existential risks threatening all of humanity. In setting the clock closer to midnight, we send a stark signal," Holz stated. He further emphasized that "every second of delay in reversing course increases the probability of global disaster."
For 75 years, the Bulletin has used this symbolic clock to highlight how close humanity is to potential catastrophe. The hands have moved both backward and forward over time based on global efforts to address threats like climate change and nuclear war. The last adjustment was in 2023 when it was set at a minute and a half to midnight.
Holz warned, "Because the world is already perilously close to the precipice, any move towards midnight should be taken as an indication of extreme danger and an unmistakable warning."
The Doomsday Clock was established by scientists from the Manhattan Project shortly after World War II. It resides at the Bulletin offices in Chicago's Keller Center. Notably, several University of Chicago faculty members are involved with its board.
In their recent decision, factors such as inadequate responses to climate change effects, nuclear arms proliferation, misuse of generative AI in disinformation campaigns, military applications, and lack of preparedness for emerging pathogens were considered. Additionally cited was former U.S. President Trump's withdrawal from global climate and health agreements.
Despite these dire warnings, Juan Manuel Santos, chair of The Council of Elders and former president of Colombia urged action rather than fear: "There is still time to make the right choices to turn back the hands of the Doomsday Clock." He added a Colombian saying: "'Cada segunda cuenta'—every second counts."
The full statement from the Bulletin outlines necessary actions for improving global safety and encourages public pressure on governments for decisive measures.