The Non-Proliferation Treaty promotes cooperation on the peaceful uses of nuclear technology

  • Signatories to the Non-Proliferation Treaty undertake to not pursue a nuclear weapons programme and cooperate on peaceful uses of nuclear technology.
  • Nuclear techniques can also be used to detect weapons and drugs.

National nuclear power programmes contribute to peace. The development of national nuclear power programmes plays a key role in the non-proliferation of nuclear weapons.


In return for access and cooperation on the peaceful uses of nuclear technology, countries that have signed the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) undertake to not pursue a nuclear weapons programme.


Compliance with the NPT is verified through inspections carried out by the International Atomic Energy Agency, ensuring that fissile material in NPT signatory countries is not diverted for weapons use.


Nuclear techniques can also help enhance security in other fields. Neutron scanning devices can be used to detect explosives, drugs or weapons, with  applications in airport security, forensics and crime scene investigation.

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