China’s proposal for a treaty on the no-first-use of nuclear weapons

Source: The post China’s proposal for a treaty on the no-first-use of nuclear weapons has been created, based on the article “The world must take up China’s proposal of a no-first-use treaty” published in “Live mints” on 3rd June 2024.

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 2-international relations-Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests.

Context:  The article discusses China’s proposal at the United Nations for a treaty on the no-first-use of nuclear weapons by nuclear-armed states. It examines the skepticism around China’s intentions, given its past actions, and argues that a no-first-use policy could improve global nuclear security. The article also highlights the role India could play in this initiative. China’s proposal for a treaty on the no-first-use of nuclear weapons

For detailed information on Nuclear Deterrence read this article here

Why is there skepticism about China’s intentions?

1. Historical Context: China has historically claimed to adhere to a no-first-use policy for nuclear weapons. However, its actions have often contradicted this stance.
2. Proxy Use: China has been known to utilize proxies like Pakistan and North Korea, which threaten nuclear action against strategic rivals such as India and the USA, respectively. This technique allows China to extend its strategic influence without direct engagement.
3. Nuclear Expansion: Despite its no-first-use claim, China is actively expanding its nuclear arsenal and enhancing its delivery mechanisms, actions that seem inconsistent with a commitment to limit the use of nuclear weapons.

Why is a no-first-use policy considered important?

1. Reduces Risk of Nuclear War: A no-first-use policy can decrease the likelihood of nuclear escalation among nuclear-armed states by establishing a clear norm against the initial use of nuclear weapons.
2. Environmental Impact: Even a limited nuclear exchange could have severe environmental consequences. A study by Mark Z. Jacobson from Stanford estimated that a small nuclear exchange could release over 690 million tonnes of CO2, which is more than the UK’s annual emissions.
3. Global Stability: Implementing a no-first-use policy contributes to global stability by preventing the catastrophic humanitarian and environmental effects of nuclear warfare.

How is the global response shaping up?

1.United States: The Biden administration appears open to discussing China’s no-first-use proposal. However, significant action is unlikely before the presidential election on November 5, indicating a cautious approach.

2.United Kingdom: Likely to align with the U.S. position, showing a tendency to follow the lead of its close ally rather than initiating independent policy movements.

3.Russia: Appears supportive of China’s proposal, reflecting strengthened ties between Moscow and Beijing, which could influence other discussions on global security.

What role could India play?

1. Crucial Participant: India’s involvement is deemed necessary for the success of a global no-first-use treaty, as their participation could lend significant weight to the initiative.
2. Potential to Influence China: If China invites India to partake in no-first-use discussions, it would signal a genuine commitment from Beijing and potentially enhance the proposal’s credibility.
3. Counteracting Regional Tensions: India’s support for the treaty could help stabilize regional nuclear dynamics, particularly with neighboring countries like Pakistan.

Question for practice:

Examine why there is skepticism about China’s intentions regarding its proposal for a no-first-use treaty on nuclear weapons at the United Nations.