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Abstract:
The alliance, comprising Australia, the UK, and the US (AUKUS), has sparked concerns
regarding its alignment with the principles of the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). This
study delves into potential NPT violations by AUKUS and evaluates the probable impact
of this alliance on the global non-proliferation regime. The NPT, a cornerstone of global
security, seeks to promote disarmament and impede the proliferation of nuclear
weapons. The study examines regional implications through the lens of the security
dilemma, anticipating that AUKUS’s provision of nuclear-powered submarines to
Australia could trigger a regional arms race. Despite Australia’s non-nuclear-weapons
status, the decision to furnish advanced nuclear technology raises questions about
adherence to the NPT and the potential for setting a precedent that erodes
nonproliferation goals. AUKUS could impact the NPT by potentially inducing hostilities
among signatories, diverting attention from disarmament efforts, and altering regional
security dynamics. The study emphasizes the imperative of upholding the NPT’s integrity
and the global objective to curb nuclear proliferation amidst evolving international
dynamics.