The Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT)

19.07.2024 Strategic Communications

The Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) has been the cornerstone of the global nuclear non-proliferation regime for over half a century.

Pictured: The UN headquarters building, New York, USA

In accordance with its Article VI, it is the essential foundation for the pursuit of nuclear disarmament. Follow this link to learn more about the NPT.

The NPT is also an important element in the development of nuclear energy applications for peaceful purposes.

Every five years, the States Parties to the NPT meet at a Review Conference to assess the fulfillment of their treaty obligations and decide on next steps. Since the indefinite extension of the Treaty in 1995, these meetings serve as regular health checks on the global nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation regime.

Deteriorating trend

The international disarmament, non-proliferation and arms control architecture finds itself under growing pressure. Increasingly, it is challenged in the current security environment, particularly since the launch of Russia’s illegal war of aggression on Ukraine and the ongoing crisis in the Middle East.

In spite of strenuous diplomatic efforts, in 2022, the Tenth NPT Review Conference ended without reaching agreement on substantive conclusions and recommendations. This was due to Russia’s sole opposition to the summary document presented by the Presidency.

The road to 2026

In this cycle, ahead of the Eleventh NPT Review Conference in 2026, it is more necessary than ever to reverse this deteriorating trend.

The European Union is fully committed to strengthening the NPT, promoting its universalisation and enhancing its implementation.

The European Union looks forward to continuing to work jointly with all States Parties to these ends at the Second Preparatory Committee in Geneva on 22 July-2 August 2024.