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Pillar 1

Disarmament

Advancing verified reductions in nuclear weapons

of the 64-item Action Plan agreed to by NPT States

Pillar 1 of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) commits its States Parties to negotiate in good faith on effective measures relating to the cessation of the nuclear arms race at an early date and to nuclear disarmament, and on a treaty on general and complete disarmament under strict and effective international control.

It also establishes the right of any group of States to conclude regional treaties with the aim of ensuring the total absence of nuclear weapons in their respective territories.

Pillar 2

Non-Proliferation

Preventing the spread of nuclear materials and technologies for military purposes

of the 64-item Action Plan agreed to by NPT States

Pillar 2 of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) establishes strict non-proliferation obligations for both nuclear-weapon and non-nuclear-weapon States. Nuclear-weapon States must not transfer nuclear weapons, nuclear explosive devices, or control over them, nor assist or encourage any non-nuclear-weapon State to acquire or manufacture such weapons. Correspondingly, non-nuclear-weapon States commit not to receive, manufacture, or seek assistance in acquiring nuclear weapons or explosive devices.

To ensure compliance, non-nuclear-weapon States must accept international safeguards administered through agreements with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), covering all nuclear material used for peaceful purposes within their jurisdiction or control. States are prohibited from supplying sensitive nuclear materials or equipment to non-nuclear-weapon States unless these are subject to safeguards. These measures are designed to prevent diversion to weapons while supporting peaceful nuclear cooperation and technological development, with safeguard agreements to be negotiated and brought into force within specified timeframes after joining the Treaty.

Pillar 3

Peaceful Uses

Promoting safe and equitable access to nuclear science & technology for development

of the 64-item Action Plan agreed to by NPT States

Pillar 3 of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) affirms the inalienable right of all States Parties to develop, produce, and use nuclear energy for peaceful purposes without discrimination, provided they comply with the Treaty’s non-proliferation obligations. Civilian nuclear activities must remain consistent with Articles I and II, which prohibit the spread or acquisition of nuclear weapons.

States Parties also commit to promoting and participating in the broadest possible exchange of equipment, materials, and scientific and technological knowledge for peaceful nuclear uses. Those able to do so are encouraged to support international cooperation and contribute to the development of peaceful nuclear applications, particularly in non-nuclear-weapon States and developing regions, taking into account their economic and technological needs.