An Eye, An Ear And A Voice: New Zealand’s Role As A Small State In International Nuclear Non-Proliferation Negotiations

Abstract

The geostrategic picture is changing and human security is declining. This is leading to instability in a range of areas. Diplomats from small states participating in international treaty negotiations are also facing these challenges. In order to ensure they aren’t sidelined small states rely on the rule-based international order and develop strategies for overcoming their smallness. Within this context, this paper explores the role of small states in international treaty negotiation and focuses on New Zealand’s role in the negotiation of the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons. The paper concludes that while there are challenges associated with size, strategies are available to small states to assist them in overcoming those challenges. Further, the size of a state is no longer the definitive measure of power and influence in international treaty negotiation.