An Assessment of International Nuclear Nonproliferation Efforts after 60 Years

Discussions among practitioners and pundits are incriminating evidence of the failure to deal with the threats and dangers of proliferation. The Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) has made an important contribution in years past, but its success remains limited as it has become an unambitious static regime, solidifying prevailing inequities or a status quo that will not stand. Some states are bound to reassess their commitments or to hesitate in making new commitments in nuclear or other areas without a change of course by the international community and more rigorous efforts. Ultimately, regional and international peace and security will be jeopardized by such inaction. The Middle East region, for example, is a striking example of the failure of global and regional nonproliferation efforts. The continuance of nuclear proliferation concerns in the Middle East with the emergence of a nuclear state will have a fundamental effect on the security paradigm in the region.