The effectiveness of the nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) in curbing Iran’s nuclear programme: A Critical analysis

DOI: 10.5176_2251-2853_1.1.3

Authors: Bowden Bolt Chengetai Mbanje and Darlington Ngoni Mahuku

Abstract:

This paper examines the major strengths and weaknesses of the nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) vis-a-vis the realist and idealist ontology. We argue that there are serious imbalances in the obligations required of the nuclear and non-nuclear weapon states. The NPT has created an international hierarchy based on the possession of nuclear weapons.

Keywords: Iran; Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT); International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA); nuclear weapons; idealim; realism; nuclear weapon states (NWS); non-nuclear weapon states (NNWS)