Strengthening Global Trust: The NPT as a Confidence Building Measure in the Nuclear Age

Abstract

This paper examines the role of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) as a critical Confidence Building Measure (CBM) in the modern nuclear age. The NPT’s three pillars—non-proliferation, peaceful use of nuclear energy, and disarmament—form the foundation of global efforts to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons and promote nuclear cooperation. This study analyzes the NPT’s effectiveness in reducing tensions between Nuclear Weapon States (NWS) and Non-Nuclear Weapon States (NNWS), emphasizing the treaty’s verification mechanisms overseen by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). The paper also highlights ongoing challenges, such as the slow pace of disarmament, modernization efforts by NWS, and the exclusion of key nuclear-armed states from the treaty. Recommendations include greater transparency from NWS, strengthened IAEA safeguards, and efforts to engage non-signatory states in disarmament negotiations