Disarmament forum : nuclear terrorism

Since 11 September 2001, the concept of nuclear terrorism no longer seems far-fetched. Scenarios such as a suicide attack on a nuclear power plant or a 'dirty bomb' detonated in an urban area have been played out in the media, by government officials and experts—sometimes in an alarmist fashion and often generating more questions than answers. Are dirty bombs nuclear weapons? Are terrorists capable of building a nuclear weapon? Could they buy one? There seems to be widespread uncertainty concerning the capabilities of terrorists and the threat posed by them. In this issue of Disarmament Forum, experts examine terrorist capabilities and means, distinguish hype from real concerns, and propose arms control responses. Arms control can make vital contributions to reducing the opportunities for nuclear terrorism. Initiatives ranging from verification and transparency measures to new treaties could promote more secure materials and facilities, as well as increased confidence in that protection. Greater awareness of the possibility of terrorists developing or using nuclear weapons or radiological devices has resulted in renewed attention on activities to develop and strengthen countermeasures to protect nuclear weapons, materials and facilities.

iii, 72 p.

Includes endnotes and bibliographical references.

1020-7287