NPTs

The Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) is an international treaty designed to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons and weapons-usable nuclear technology, to promote cooperation in the peaceful uses of nuclear energy, and to advance nuclear disarmament. It was negotiated in the 1960s and opened for signature in 1968, entering into force in 1970. The treaty rests on three pillars: non-proliferation, disarmament, and the right to the peaceful use of nuclear energy.

Under non-proliferation, non-nuclear-weapon states parties agree not to manufacture or acquire nuclear weapons or other nuclear explosive devices. In exchange, they are able to pursue peaceful nuclear energy programs under international safeguards. Nuclear-weapon states commit to pursuing negotiations in good faith on measures related to nuclear disarmament and to assist in the peaceful use of nuclear energy for all parties, while recognizing the obligation to reduce and eventually eliminate their own arsenals.

The treaty also establishes a verification regime to prevent illicit weapon development. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) conducts safeguards to verify that nuclear material is used for peaceful purposes and is not diverted to weapons programs. Some states have adopted the Additional Protocol, which strengthens verification measures.

Membership and status: as of 2024, the NPT has approximately 191 states parties. The five recognized nuclear-weapon states under the treaty are the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Russia, and China. India, Israel, and Pakistan never joined the NPT, and North Korea withdrew in 2003 after having previously acceded.

The NPT has shaped global norms against the spread of nuclear weapons and remains central to international arms control, though its implementation and the pace of disarmament remain subjects of ongoing international debate and negotiation.