While the world wrestles with the idea of a world free of nuclear weapons, some regions are already a step ahead. The whole southern hemisphere is a nuclear weapon-free zone (NWFZ) and also in the northern hemisphere such zones are being created. This learning unit focusses on NWFZ and the idea of broadening such zones both geographically and in relation to other weapons of mass destruction.

After completing this unit, the you will

• understand the concept of NWFZ and WMDFZ.
• comprehend the legal basis and the structure of these zones.
• have an overview of the history of their development.
• know the rationale of their establishment.
• understand the role of external actors and the negative security assurances that Nuclear Weapon States are expected to provide.
• be capable of assessing the EU's position on NWFZ in general and the Middle East WMDFZ in particular.