Critically evaluate the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty as the cornerstone of the global non-proliferation regime. Examine the arguments supporting the view that the Treaty embodies a discriminatory distinction between nuclear-weapon and non-nuclear-weapon states, while assessing its contribution to strategic stability, nuclear disarmament, international security, and the evolution of global nuclear governance.

Introduction The Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), which entered into force in 1970, represents the most comprehensive and enduring legal instrument governing the international nuclear order. Negotiated in the context of escalating Cold War tensions, rapid advances in nuclear technology, and growing fears of widespread nuclear proliferation, the Treaty sought to prevent the emergence of a … Continue reading Critically evaluate the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty as the cornerstone of the global non-proliferation regime. Examine the arguments supporting the view that the Treaty embodies a discriminatory distinction between nuclear-weapon and non-nuclear-weapon states, while assessing its contribution to strategic stability, nuclear disarmament, international security, and the evolution of global nuclear governance.

Analyse the role of the NPT in preventing nuclear proliferation during the Cold War and in the post-Cold War international order. Elucidate the relationship between the NPT and other global nuclear agreements such as the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty (CTBT) and the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW).

The Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty: Cold War Dynamics, Post-Cold War Challenges, and its Relationship with Other Global Nuclear Agreements The Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT), opened for signature in 1968 and entering into force in 1970, remains the cornerstone of the global nuclear order. Its tripartite framework—non-proliferation, disarmament, and peaceful use of nuclear … Continue reading Analyse the role of the NPT in preventing nuclear proliferation during the Cold War and in the post-Cold War international order. Elucidate the relationship between the NPT and other global nuclear agreements such as the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty (CTBT) and the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW).

How do international norms, nuclear taboos, and epistemic communities shape state behaviour, constrain policy choices, and influence the institutional architecture governing nuclear proliferation in the contemporary international system?

Norms, Taboos, and Epistemic Communities in the Governance of Nuclear Proliferation In the international system, the governance of nuclear weapons transcends material capabilities and deterrence logic. It is also deeply embedded in normative frameworks, ideational constructs, and the epistemic authority of transnational expert networks. While realist perspectives emphasize state interests and power calculations, constructivist and … Continue reading How do international norms, nuclear taboos, and epistemic communities shape state behaviour, constrain policy choices, and influence the institutional architecture governing nuclear proliferation in the contemporary international system?