Final answer:
The Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty would play a significant role in bolstering nonproliferation in situations where an NPT signatory, such as South Africa, is alleged to be diverting nuclear materials for weapons uses, contravening treaty provisions.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty's (NPT) role as an institution is likely to bolster nonproliferation particularly in scenarios where international norms and rules related to nuclear technology are potentially being violated. For example, in a case where Botswana alleges that South Africa has removed uranium from the Pelindaba facility for use in a bomb, the NPT would indeed play a pivotal role. This is because South Africa is a signatory of the NPT, and any diversion of nuclear materials for weapons use would directly contravene the treaty's provisions, which mandate nonproliferation. As such, the NPT provides a framework for international response and pressure, including sanctions, inspections, and potential intervention by the United Nations Security Council, to enforce nonproliferation norms. However, in situations involving countries like North Korea, which has withdrawn from the NPT, the treaty's direct influence is limited, although it still provides a platform for international diplomatic efforts and pressure.