Talking Nuclear Security

Talking Nuclear Security

by Rajeev Sharma

The Nuclear Security Summit that begins in Seoul on Monday will focus on a range of nuclear-related issues. But two subjects that should dominate discussions at the event are working toward an institutionalized mechanism for strengthening synergies between nuclear safety and nuclear security, and the question of how to restore confidence in the nuclear industry in the wake of the Fukushima disaster. Both problems seem likely to require a greater oversight role, including through increased responsibilities for the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), which has often been straitjacketed by politics. The first Nuclear Security Summit, held in Washington in 2010, focused on finding ways of strengthening international safeguards to prevent nuclear terrorism. But with the fallout from Fukushima looming so large in the international consciousness, nuclear safety generally – including the sound construction of plants – is likely to be discussed. In addition, more should be done to ensure that countries report their ... Read More...