This map layer shows where the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty has been ratified.
The Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, commonly known as the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), entered into force in 1970. The states that have ratified this Treaty undertake to dismantle their nuclear capabilities or not to acquire such weapons. However, every country is granted a right to pursue civil nuclear programmes, and the treaty explicitly encourages exchange on peaceful uses. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has the task of checking on treaty compliance and undertakes notified on-site inspections. Although, in the 1970s, many experts predicted that little could be done to prevent the proliferation of nuclear weapons systems, only four more states have since become nuclear-weapon powers (India, Israel, North Korea, Pakistan).
Members of each ABC / NBC weapons agreement 2018
The graph shows the number of members of each NBC arms control agreement (early 2018).
Sources: UNODA 2018, OPCW 2018, CTBTO 2018
© picture-alliance / dpa
Key nuclear arms control agreements
Quite a few nuclear arms control agreements have been negotiated over the last half-century. Some have been signed by a large number of countries, others by just two. Here are the most important agreements:
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© picture-alliance / dpa
The IAEA and its functions
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) was established in 1957 and has 169 member states (as of December 2017). This scientific and technical institution has its headquarters in Vienna.
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© picture alliance / AA
Is “Global Zero” constructive? On the prospects of nuclear disarmament
On 5 April 2009, US President Barack Obama declared in Prague that his presidency would affirm "America's commitment to seek the peace and security of a world without nuclear weapons”.
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