Question

What is the primary political obstacle to achieving complete nuclear disarmament?

Accepted Answer

The primary political obstacle to achieving complete nuclear disarmament is the lack of trust and the persistence of security competition among states, particularly among the major powers. Nuclear weapons are viewed by some states as the ultimate guarantor of their security, deterring potential aggressors and providing a hedge against unforeseen threats. Giving up these weapons would require a level of trust and cooperation that is currently lacking in the international system. States fear that if they disarm, they would become vulnerable to attack or coercion by other states, especially those that retain nuclear weapons or possess superior conventional military capabilities. This security dilemma is exacerbated by regional conflicts, territorial disputes, and ideological differences. Even if all states agreed in principle to disarm, verifying compliance with a disarmament treaty would be extremely challenging, as there is always the risk that some states might cheat and secretly retain a nuclear arsenal. This fear of cheating further undermines trust and makes it difficult to achieve complete disarmament. The political obstacles are further compounded by the domestic political considerations in nuclear-armed states. Nuclear weapons are often seen as a symbol of national power and prestige, and there can be significant domestic opposition to disarmament from political elites, military establishments, and segments of the public. Overcoming these political obstacles would require a fundamental shift in international relations, characterized by greater trust, cooperation, and a willingness to address the underlying sources of insecurity that drive states to seek nuclear weapons.

Home → All Courses → Law and Criminal Justice Courses → Nuclear Weapons Management → Flashcard

What is the primary political obstacle to achieving complete nuclear disarmament?