Hot Spots, Weak Links
Strengthening Nuclear Security in a Changing World
Major Challenges
There is an urgent need to evaluate and strengthen the global nuclear security regime. Embedded in such an effort is the worldwide need to secure nuclear and other radioactive materials in non-weapon, non-nuclear use. The many storages of research reactor fuel containing highly enriched uranium, which can be used in an improvised nuclear explosive device must be seen in the perspective of the potential consequences should these materials come into the wrong hands. Furthermore, many research establishments with research reactors, laboratories and waste handling facilities require that much more attention be given to security.
The security of transport of nuclear and radioactive materials presents additional issues of concern to the international community. These questions are further complicated by the materials that present both a radiological and a chemical hazard. The privatisation of the nuclear power industry, the construction of new generations of nuclear power reactors, as well as of other nuclear fuel cycle facilities, compel expanded security-related responsibilities for the private sector.
It is also clear that robust, tight and internationally accepted nuclear security, which subscribes to a graded-recommendations approach based on risk and potential consequences, is imperative to sustainable development, of which the day-to-day benefit of nuclear energy and nuclear applications is an integral part.
The Holistic Approach
Global nuclear security requires a multi-track and holistic approach. It includes efforts to prevent the spread of weapons of mass destruction and related material; the protection of sensitive equipment and technologies; control of radioactive sources from cradle to grave, the detection of malicious acts involving nuclear and other radioactive materials, and emergency and incident preparedness to respond to and mitigate the consequences of any such acts.
Building a Global Nuclear Security Regime
The top tier of a global nuclear security regime consists of the CPPNM and the Code of Conduct for the Safety and Security of Radioactive Sources. Safeguards agreements and additional protocols are recognized for their contribution to nuclear security. Likewise, the Convention on Nuclear Safety, the Convention on the Early Notification of a Nuclear Accident, the Convention on Assistance in the Case of a Nuclear Accident or Radiological Emergency, and the Joint Convention on the Safety of Spent Fuel Management and on the Safety of Radioactive Waste Management are recognized as important components of the institutional framework.
It is noted that the CPPNM is one of the twelve conventions that have been identified to contribute to the prevention of terrorism, and therefore, a strengthened CPPNM will significantly reinforce the global nuclear security regime. The proposals made by the open-ended group of legal and technical experts to amend the CPPNM contain broadening of its scope to include: protection of nuclear material in use, storage and transport, and the protection of nuclear facilities against sabotage. Further, universal implementation of the Code of Conduct on the Safety and Security of Radioactive Sources will also strengthen the nuclear security regime.
The global security regime is only as good as its weakest link. Eliminating the "weak links" requires the utmost attention. It is essential to work toward the creation of a critical mass of intellectual and institutional resources in States, which will be able to provide the competencies required to establish and sustain robust nuclear security systems and facilitate their implementation. Cooperation among relevant national authorities is key to forming effective national networks. Enhanced interaction between governments and non-governmental institutions will facilitate the exchange of new ideas and increase public awareness of threats to nuclear security of the nations. Effective intergovernmental networks will support a constructive nuclear security dialogue.
Page 4 of 5