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

Abstract

This paper examines the major strengths and weaknesses of the nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) vis-à-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. It has allowed the five permanent members of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) to continue with vertical proliferation while creating a barrier for other states. The problems outside the treaty have rendered it neither the sole element nor the complete solution of all nuclear proliferation problems.