The collapse of bilateral arms control regimes in the Global North is fuelling a multipolar nuclear race. Analyse. What challenges does this pose for Global South diplomacy?

Topic: Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests,

Q4. The collapse of bilateral arms control regimes in the Global North is fuelling a multipolar nuclear race. Analyse. What challenges does this pose for Global South diplomacy? (10 M)

Difficulty Level: Medium

Reference: TH

Why the question:
If thinking on deterrence shifts in this age of global realignment and potential instability, we are entering a period of self-inflicted nuclear insecurity

Key Demand of the question:
The question requires an analysis of how the end of bilateral arms control in the Global North is leading to a multipolar nuclear race, and a separate examination of the unique diplomatic challenges this creates for the Global South.

Structure of the Answer:

Introduction
Mention the ongoing nuclear modernisation and treaty collapses marking a shift to unregulated nuclear competition.

Body

• Analyse how bilateral treaty breakdowns (e.g., INF, New START) are accelerating a multipolar nuclear build-up.
• Examine the diplomatic challenges for the Global South such as marginalisation in nuclear discourse, proliferation threats, and weakened disarmament platforms.

Conclusion
Suggest the need for a united Global South initiative for inclusive nuclear governance and renewed multilateralism.