Publication

This publication highlights that at the 2020 Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) Review Conference (RevCon), the NPT parties can be expected to produce a document, approved by consensus, that reviews the Treaty’s operations and sets out follow-on actions. However, the current security environment—including the return of great power rivalries—mean the chances for consensus on such a document are low. Consequently, the text’s author argues the parties should be prepared to pursue a ‘Plan B’—a positive conference outcome that 1) includes both consensus and nonconsensus elements in any final document; and 2) reaffirms the indispensable role of the NPT in promoting non-proliferation, disarmament and peaceful uses of nuclear energy.