Abstract
The phrase “weapons of mass destruction” encompasses, among others, nuclear, atomic or radioactive weapons. This chapter deals with pertaining legal issues related to nuclear weapons. It starts with defining the main object of the review, i.e., what is meant by “nuclear weapons” followed by the discussion of the existing international and regional legal frameworks as well as applicable case law. It also looks at different areas of international law which pertain to the use and/or testing of nuclear weapons and considers relevant legal principles and rules as to their application to nuclear weapons. The main conclusion advanced by this chapter will be that the negative consequences flowing out of the potential use of nuclear arsenals outweigh any possible—real or perceived, benefits (including security considerations) of storing nuclear weapons in any state's possession.