Struggles of Norm Construction in the Global Nuclear Order: An Indian Perspective on the Formative Years

Abstract

The existence of a global nuclear order as a conglomeration of norms, regimes, and institutions seems to have brought equilibrium to the governance of the Atom. Yet, the „order‟ is dominated by the non-proliferation norm, which has curbed the spread of nuclear weapons though not their existence. The NPT, as the cornerstone treaty, to facilitate this process has faltered due to its incoherent conceptual framing and conflicting interpretations of its process and purpose. The goal of total elimination, however, has remained elusive. This article revisits the early struggles of nuclear norm construction through the perspective of an actor with multiple role identities such as a norm entrepreneur, crusader, and challenger.