proliferation

Proliferation generally refers to the rapid increase or spread of something. In contexts like technology, it can mean an accelerated growth or distribution, such as the widespread use of smartphones. In international security, proliferation specifically describes the spread of weapons, especially nuclear arms, to more countries or groups, which can increase global risks. Overall, proliferation highlights a process where something expands quickly or broadly, often raising concerns about control, safety, or stability depending on the situation.