lecture recording on 25 February 2025 at 10.37.57 AM

Overview of International Politics

• Importance of tools and concepts for understanding international politics

• Upcoming classes on nuclear weapons and terrorism

Nuclear Proliferation

• Definition: Nuclear proliferation refers to the spread of nuclear weapons and technology.

• Key States: 5 countries officially recognized with nuclear weapons under international law:

  • United States

  • United Kingdom

  • France

  • Russia

  • China

• These countries are permanent members of the United Nations Security Council.

• Debate around fairness of nuclear capabilities and Security Council representation.

Nuclear Treaty Frameworks

• Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT): A key international treaty that aims to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons.

  • Categories of states:

    • Nuclear-armed states: The 5 permanent members of the UN Security Council.

    • Non-nuclear states: Countries that agree not to develop or acquire nuclear weapons.

  • Successful strategy: Encouraged nuclear states not to spread nuclear technology.

• Non-compliant states: Countries like India, Pakistan, and North Korea that have nuclear capabilities outside NPT compliance.

• Nuclear Ambiguity: Israel's policy of not confirming or denying nuclear weapons existence.

Role of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)

• IAEA Responsibilities: Ensures compliance with the NPT by inspecting nuclear facilities.

  • Focus on stopping indigenous enrichment for military use.

Testing Ban Initiatives

• Importance of testing bans to prevent development of nuclear weapons capabilities.

• International frameworks to ensure compliance include efforts to stop ballistic missile testing.

The Iran Nuclear Deal

• Context: Central part of President Obama’s foreign policy.

• Key Agreement: Iran pledged to give up technology for nuclear weapons in exchange for lifted sanctions.

• Challenges: Agreement faltered after President Trump withdrew, leading to increased tensions

  • Mention of difficulties in international transactions and sanctions.

Historical Context: Cold War

• US vs. USSR: Cold War characterized by a nuclear arms race but no direct engagement.

  • Nuclear Deterrence: Logic that nuclear weapons prevent the outbreak of conflict.

  • Some experts argue that proliferation may actually stabilize international relations.

Competing Perspectives on Nuclear Weapons

• Proliferation Optimists: Argue that the presence of nuclear weapons maintains peace by deterring conflict.

• Proliferation Advocates: Call for nuclear disarmament, citing dangers and potential threats to peace.

  • Emphasis on disarming nations that possess nuclear capabilities.

Ukraine Case Study

• Historical Context: Ukraine inherited nuclear weapons from the former Soviet Union and gave them up for security assurances from Russia.

• Hypothetical consideration: Would Ukraine have been safer with its nuclear arsenal during conflict with Russia?

Conclusion

• Encouragement for students to think critically about perspectives in international politics.

• Next class will cover terrorism; students should prepare their thoughts on the topic.