The Intersection of Nuclear Disarmament and Global Development
During my recent attendance at the Third Meeting of States’ Parties to the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (3MSP TPNW) at the United Nations headquarters in New York City, I couldn’t help but draw parallels between the movement to ban nuclear weapons and the economic inequality that hinders development worldwide. The United Nations emphasizes the link between development and peace, with UN Secretary-General António Guterres recently stating that “no peace is secure without inclusive and sustainable development that leaves no one behind.” Just as a few wealthy nations’ reluctance to relinquish the status quo impedes global development and widens inequality, disarmament efforts face obstacles from a handful of nations with nuclear stockpiles.
Both the progress in poverty alleviation and the reduction of nuclear warheads have hit roadblocks. Economic growth in emerging and developing economies has slowed, while the global decrease in nuclear weapons has stagnated, with some states even expanding their arsenals. None of the nuclear-armed states have taken tangible steps towards disarmament.
At a time when the United States is scaling back its support for global development, many UN member states are exploring alternative paths for development, such as forging regional partnerships or strengthening ties with countries like China. Similarly, the TPNW is uniting an increasing number of member states to establish and institutionalize pro-disarmament norms.
Leading the Charge Globally
Similar to the Second Meeting of States’ Parties in 2023, this year’s gathering served as a significant platform for affected communities and non-governmental organizations. The number of treaty signatories has risen to 94, just one shy of a global majority, and states have committed to continuing work on an international trust fund to compensate communities impacted by nuclear testing and use. The working group overseeing the fund is set to finalize a report on its specifics four months prior to the treaty’s first review conference in December 2026.
Reflecting on the previous meeting in 2023, I highlighted the persistent reliance on nuclear weapons for security that the TPNW aims to address. With the new Trump administration in office, the US is recalibrating its relationships with allies, adversaries, and neutral states. Concerns over China’s increasing influence relative to the US have led to calls for expanded nuclear capabilities to counter China’s growing presence in developing countries and the Pacific region.
The reduction in US Agency for International Development (USAID) funding has sparked controversy, with critics arguing that dismantling USAID is not only detrimental to critical programs but also a strategic misstep. While the US and China provide aid through different mechanisms, there is room for collaboration rather than competition in aiding global-majority countries.
Harnessing Collective Power
Just as in development financing, effective arms control requires cooperation to yield tangible outcomes. Amidst the competition between the US and China for global influence, countries in the global majority have a unique opportunity to unite, build stronger institutions, and coordinate efforts to push for enhanced arms control measures. The TPNW serves as a potential platform for organized pressure, urging developing countries to collectively oppose nuclear threats and challenge nuclear states’ reliance on these weapons for security.
Recent events, such as the UN General Assembly’s vote to establish an independent scientific panel to study the effects of nuclear war, underscore the divide between nuclear states and the global majority. While some nuclear-armed states oppose such studies fearing a threat to their security doctrine, others advocate for disarmament and nuclear risk reduction. Collaboration among states is essential to achieve disarmament and foster a safer global environment.
In conclusion, just as the UN emphasizes the link between development and peace, the global majority holds the power to influence both development assistance and arms control measures. While individual states may not achieve disarmament on their own, collective action can pave the way for a safer and more prosperous world. The global majority must leverage its strength to drive cooperation and progress on both fronts, ensuring a more secure and equitable future for all.
