The Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) is an international agreement aimed at preventing the spread of nuclear weapons and promoting peaceful uses of nuclear energy. Established in 1968, it has three main pillars: non-proliferation, disarmament, and the right to peacefully use nuclear technology. Countries that sign the treaty commit to not developing nuclear weapons and to work towards disarmament. The NPT is crucial for global security, as it helps to reduce the risk of nuclear conflict. Currently, over 190 countries are parties to the treaty, including the five recognized nuclear-armed states: the United States, Russia, China, France, and the United Kingdom, known as the P5.