Nuclear weapons are often discussed in terms of deterrence, strategy, or survival. Rarely are they examined through the lens of global inequality. The existence and control of nuclear arsenals reflect deeper divisions between nations—divisions rooted in history, economics, and power. Nuclear weapons not only threaten catastrophic destruction; they also symbolize stark disparities that continue to define international relations.

The Distribution of Nuclear Power

Only nine countries possess nuclear weapons: the United States, Russia, China, France, the United Kingdom, India, Pakistan, Israel, and North Korea. This small group controls the most destructive force humanity has ever created, with arsenals ranging from a few dozen to several thousand warheads.

Meanwhile, over 180 countries are prohibited from building nuclear weapons under the landmark Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). But while the non-nuclear states faithfully honor their commitment not to build nuclear weapons, nuclear-armed countries continue breaking their NPT promise to disarm as well.

The unequal possession of nuclear weapons also mirrors broader global patterns of privilege and exclusion. Those with nuclear capabilities enjoy enhanced political leverage and disproportionate influence over international policy. Those without must rely on assurances and frameworks that are beyond their control.

Historical Roots of the Divide

The roots of nuclear inequality can be traced back to the aftermath of World War II, when the United States was the only nuclear power. The Soviet Union followed in 1949, and the nuclear club soon expanded to include other nations.

Access to nuclear technology was shaped by economic resources, scientific infrastructure, and political influence—assets concentrated in a few industrialized countries. Efforts to limit the spread of nuclear weapons, while crucial for global security, also meant solidifying the status quo and creating a world of nuclear “haves” and “have-nots.”

For less powerful countries, the nuclear divide is often a reminder of historical injustices. Resources from their lands often fueled the industrial and military rise of colonial powers, yet they remained marginalized in global decision-making arenas, especially those involving nuclear weapons issues.

The Double Standards of Nuclear Policy

One of the clearest manifestations of nuclear inequality is the double standard embedded in policymaking.

Nuclear-armed states consistently argue that their possession of nuclear weapons is justified by security needs, while also insisting that other nations must remain nuclear-free. Efforts to prevent countries like Iran and North Korea from acquiring nuclear weapons dominate headlines, even as modernization of existing arsenals continues among established powers in violation of their NPT promise to eliminate nukes.

Furthermore, the humanitarian consequences of nuclear testing have disproportionately affected marginalized communities. From the Marshall Islands to Algeria and more, indigenous populations in colonized or economically disadvantaged regions have suffered health and environmental impacts from nuclear weapons testing without adequate compensation for the damage done.

The Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW)

In response to the inequality in nuclear policy, many non-nuclear nations rallied to create the 2017 Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW). This treaty, the first legally binding international agreement to entirely prohibit nuclear weapons, was driven largely by countries outside the traditional centers of power.

The TPNW bans the development, testing, production, acquisition, possession, and use of nuclear weapons. It also includes provisions for assistance to victims of nuclear use and testing, as well as environmental remediation.

However, none of the nuclear-armed states have signed the treaty, and many of their closest allies have refused to sign as well. This resistance highlights the imbalance between nations whose voices are prioritized and those whose concerns are not taken seriously.

The TPNW represents not only a legal instrument, but also a statement that most of the world’s nations reject the legitimacy of nuclear weapons and want them eliminated.

The Path Toward Greater Equity

Addressing inequalities surrounding nuclear weapons requires rethinking how security is defined, who gets to define it, and whose interests are protected.

Some steps that can help promote greater equity include:

• Prioritizing global disarmament efforts: Renewing commitments under the NPT and supporting initiatives like the TPNW can help shift the focus toward a more balanced global order.

• Acknowledging and compensating victims of nuclear testing: Recognizing historical injustices and providing adequate reparations is essential for accountability and mending relations.

• Expanding decision-making power: Ensuring that non-nuclear countries have a meaningful voice in international security forums is vital for establishing fair and balanced global systems.

Only by confronting the inequities embedded in the nuclear order can the world move toward a truly sustainable and secure future.

Why This Issue Matters

Nuclear weapons are not only a threat because of their destructive power; they are also a symbol of an unequal and divided world. The privilege of nuclear possession is concentrated in the hands of a few, while the consequences of their testing and use have been borne by many.

At the Our Planet Project Foundation, we believe that global inequalities mirror the imbalance between states with nuclear weapons and those without. A world free of nuclear weapons is possible—but only if we work to build a world where every nation’s security concerns are addressed by more than false rhetoric and deliberate mistruths.