Which treaty aims to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons by limiting production and technology?

• A. Ottawa Treaty
• B. Chemical Weapons Convention
• C. Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty
• D. Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty

Answer: (C)

Non-proliferation of nuclear weapons is the main idea behind this question. The Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty establishes a framework to stop the spread by restricting who can develop and access nuclear weapons technology. It divides states into those that already have nuclear weapons and those that don’t. Non-nuclear-weapon states agree not to pursue or acquire nuclear weapons and, in return, are allowed to pursue peaceful nuclear energy under international safeguards to ensure civilian programs don’t lead to weaponization. Nuclear-weapon states, in turn, commit to pursuing disarmament over time. The combination of limiting production and controlling sensitive technology, with oversight to enforce these rules, makes this treaty the best fit for preventing spread. The other treaties focus on different issues—banning landmines, prohibiting chemical weapons, or banning testing—which do not address the spread of nuclear weapons as directly.