Nuclear technologies are used to detect nuclear material out of regulatory control (MORC) at borders to prevent the smuggling of these materials. There is a delicate balance between the desire for shipments to reach their destinations in a timely fashion and the implementation of proper border monitoring practices.
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) provides its Member States with equipment to detect radioactive material and is working closely with states to find ways in which these tools can be used most effectively.
A new VCDNP fact sheet, authored by VCDNP Senior Research Associate Ingrid Kirsten and Research Associate Noah Mayhew highlights the benefits of nuclear technologies for the prevention of illicit trafficking while facilitating trade, as well as the support provided by the IAEA to this end.
The fact sheet builds on a panel discussion the VCDNP held on 13 November 2019 on "Material Out of Regulatory Control: Facilitating Trade While Preventing Nuclear Smuggling." At the panel discussion, experts shared their experiences in the development of effective and efficient border control strategies, as well as the strengths and weaknesses in their national capacities to prevent material out of regulatory control (MORC) from being smuggled across borders.
