Nandini Singh, University of Palermo
Introduction
One of the most unstable areas in terms of nuclear security and strategic stability is South Asia, which is home to India and Pakistan, two neighbours with nuclear weapons. A delicate security environment with regular tensions and the possibility of miscalculation has resulted from the existence of nuclear weapons. Notwithstanding these obstacles, the concept of non-nuclear proliferation—which aims to stop the spread and advancement of nuclear weapons—has drawn interest as a means of achieving regional peace and stability over the long run. The difficulties of nuclear proliferation in South Asia, current non-proliferation initiatives, and possible tactics to stop the nuclear arms race are all examined in this article.
Challenges of Nuclear proliferation in south Asia
Historical rivalries and security dilemmas
India and Pakistan share a long history of conflict, highlighted by several wars and ongoing disagreements over borders, especially concerning Kashmir. Each country sees nuclear weapons as a way to prevent possible attacks. The security dilemma, where one country's actions to feel safe lead the other to respond similarly, has sparked an arms race that makes it hard to achieve goals of reducing nuclear weapons.
Lack of regional non-proliferation framework
Unlike other areas with nuclear weapons, South Asia does not have a formal agreement to manage or limit these weapons. Although there are global treaties like the Non- Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT), India and Pakistan have not signed the NPT as countries with nuclear weapons. Without a local agreement, it is unclear how to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons in the region.
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