The Newest Member of the Nuclear Club: Pakistan's Drive for a Nuclear Weapons Capability and United States Nuclear Nonproliferation Policy

Authors

Stephen H. Cassidy

Abstract

One of the most consistent goals of United States foreign policy since the end of World War II has been to halt the spread among nations of the testing and manufacture of nuclear weapons. This Note provides a theoretical and historical overview of the history of nonproliferation efforts by the United States and the world community. The primary test case for United States policy in the 1980s, and the latest nation on the threshold of possessing nuclear weapons, is Pakistan. The Note focuses on United States attempts to convince Pakistan not to pursue the nuclear option.

Important debates between Congress and the Executive Branch are analyzed along with an examination of the factors involved in Pakistan's decision to obtain a nuclear weapon's capability. Particular attention will be paid to the United States Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 and its impact on the United States aid program to Pakistan.

The author suggests that certain changes in the Act be made, in addition to greater diplomatic efforts, to avoid a nuclear arms race in South Asia.

Recommended Citation

Stephen H. Cassidy, The Newest Member of the Nuclear Club: Pakistan's Drive for a Nuclear Weapons Capability and United States Nuclear Nonproliferation Policy, 12 Hastings Int'l & Comp. L. Rev. 679 (1989).
Available at: https://repository.uclawsf.edu/hastings_international_comparative_law_review/vol12/iss3/7