Introduction

Despite concerted efforts, the international community has been unable to halt the spread of nuclear weapons. The resulting potential for future nuclear crises is one of the world’s foremost security concerns. How will nuclear weapons affect the behavior of newly nuclear states? Will they lead to an increase in the frequency and danger of international crises? The nuclearization of South Asia offers an opportunity to explore these issues, in a region of burgeoning economic and political importance. In addition, lessons from South Asia may help us to anticipate the likely behavior of new proliferators such as Iran and North Korea.