Is it better to focus on non-proliferation efforts to prevent new states or terrorist groups to acquire nuclear weapons?

Answer

A ban will be an effective tool to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons. Many non-nuclear weapon states have signed the Non Proliferation Treaty because of the ”bargain” contained in the treaty: you promise to not develop nuclear weapons maintaining your right to develop nuclear energy, in exchange for the promise of nuclear-armed states to disarm their weapons. A ban would instead prohibit nuclear weapons universally and as result of an unequivocal rejection, strengthening the NPT and making it a powerful tool to prevent proliferation.

 

Continuing to argue that nuclear weapons are essential for providing security will only encourage other states to follow suit.