UPSC Notes

Denuclearization

PYQs

3

Articles

1

Momentum

11

Phase IFoundation

Background

Overview

Nuclear proliferation and denuclearization efforts are paramount global security challenges, frequently featuring in international relations, security, and ethics discussions in UPSC.

Denuclearization refers to the process of eliminating nuclear weapons from a country's arsenal or a specific region, often pursued through international treaties, diplomatic negotiations, and verification mechanisms to prevent proliferation and enhance global security. It is a critical aspect of international arms control.

Phase IIStatic core

Facts & tables

Key facts

Objective

Prevent the spread of nuclear weapons (non-proliferation) and ultimately achieve a world free of them (disarmament).

Key Treaties

Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) is the cornerstone, along with others like CTBT.

Challenges

Verification, trust deficits, security assurances for non-nuclear states, and the dual-use nature of nuclear technology.

Actors

UN Security Council, IAEA, major nuclear powers, and regional blocs.

Reference table

Static syllabus anchors

TypeReference
Conceptual areaInternational Relations

Reference table

Institutions & roles

BodyRole
International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)Verifies compliance
United Nations Security Council (UNSC)Enforces resolutions
Phase IIIExam lens

Prelims angle

Topic timeline

International Relations

Related topics

Practice writing on this topic

UPSC has asked 3 linked questions on Denuclearization in Mains. Write an answer to one — and get it evaluated.

UPSC Prelims PYQs on Denuclearization

Practice official previous year questions asked by UPSC related to this concept.

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