P5 Process and its Role in International Efforts Toward the Total Elimination of Nuclear Weapons

Abstract

Nine countries possess nuclear weapons: the United States, Russia, China, the United Kingdom, and France. These countries are recognized as the Nuclear Weapon States under the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). However, India, Pakistan, and North Korea are not the NPT signatories. Israel neither confirms nor denies possessing nuclear weapons. Yet it is widely acknowledged that Israel possesses nuclear weapons and remains outside the NPT regime. The research focuses on approaches to eliminate nuclear weapons, including the step by-step approach, pressure approach, and P5 process. The P5 process has the potential for nuclear disarmament. However, this approach has yet to receive much attention in academic discussions. The research question of this paper is “How does the P5 process contribute to achieving the complete abolition of nuclear weapons?” The research emphasizes the development of the P5 process and investigates its objectives and potential to contribute to the complete elimination of nuclear weapons. The research also included joint statements by the leaders of the five nuclear-weapon states and their impact on international conferences related to nuclear disarmament. The research concluded that the P5 process can overcome the challenges of a step-by-step approach and pressure approach. This process ensures a comprehensive and cooperative approach to disarmament by fostering and engaging in ongoing dialogue. It emphasizes the importance of sustained dialogue, transparency and cooperation among the five nuclear-weapon states. This research will contribute to further exploration and continuous research on the potential of the P5 process in eliminating nuclear weapons. Further research is needed to enhance the practical effectiveness of the P5 process in nuclear disarmament. It is essential to pay attention to facts such as agreements among the five Nuclear Weapon States and actual achievements.