The Intelligence from The Economist Tug of warheads: the nuclear order
Jan 29, 2021
Shishang Joshi, Defense editor at The Economist, and Avantika Chulkati, International correspondent, dive into pressing global issues. They discuss the growing nuclear ambitions of various states, the complexities of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, and the rising tensions in East Asia and the Middle East. Chulkati shines a light on Sub-Saharan Africa's dual malnutrition challenge, where obesity spikes alongside undernourishment, and explores community efforts in Zambia to promote healthier eating. They also touch on the geopolitical implications of rare-earth mining in Greenland.
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NPT's Success and Current Challenges
- The Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) prevented widespread nuclear proliferation, limiting nuclear-armed states to nine.
- However, existing nuclear powers like China, India, Pakistan, and North Korea are expanding their arsenals.
Potential Proliferators
- Countries like Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan possess advanced nuclear technology but show less ambition.
- Middle Eastern countries like Iran and Saudi Arabia display greater ambition but have less technical expertise.
Shifting Power Dynamics
- America's leverage over countries like Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan has diminished.
- North Korea's advanced weaponry now poses a direct threat to American cities, altering the dynamics of nuclear deterrence.