What is the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) designed to accomplish?

The Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) is designed primarily to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons and promote the peaceful use of nuclear energy. This treaty acknowledges the existing nuclear-armed states while seeking to limit the number of states that can acquire nuclear weapons. It aims to create a framework for international cooperation in the pursuit of nuclear energy for peaceful purposes while simultaneously working towards global disarmament and the reduction of nuclear arsenals.

The NPT establishes three main pillars: non-proliferation, disarmament, and the promotion of peaceful uses of nuclear energy. The treaty incentivizes countries to engage in the peaceful application of nuclear technology, which can be beneficial for energy production and medical applications, among others, while also establishing a framework for monitoring and verification to ensure compliance. This dual focus seeks to prevent the dangers associated with the spread of nuclear weapons while allowing nations to harness nuclear technology for peaceful ends.