Patricia Jaworek
Director, Global Nuclear Policy Program
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The global nuclear order has been fundamentally and irreversibly altered by intense geopolitical competition, an increasingly complex strategic environment, and rapid technological advancements, resulting in a dangerously high risk of nuclear weapons use. This paper examines the factors contributing to the disruption of the existing architecture, proposes near-term principles and steps for managing this perilous moment, and emphasizes the urgency of moving toward a more resilient and stable system where nuclear risks are greatly reduced.
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This paper outlines six practical options that non-nuclear weapon states could pursue to reduce nuclear risks amid heightened geopolitical tensions. The options were developed based on interviews with nuclear policy experts from around the world. They reflect priority areas where government investment could have the most near- to medium-term impact, as well as the tools and channels through which these efforts could be advanced.
The Nuclear Threat Initiative (NTI), Euro-Atlantic Security Leadership Group (EASLG), Asia-Pacific Leadership Network (APLN), and European Leadership Network (ELN) have worked since March 2020 to highlight the benefits of independent, internal “fail-safe” reviews in nuclear-armed states.
Nuclear-weapon-free zones (NWFZs) are one of the most successful and enduring elements of the global effort to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons. Practical steps exist that could strengthen NWFZ resilience, reinvigorate engagement within and between them, and create opportunities for leadership.
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