THE GLOBAL NUCLEAR ENERGY PARTNERSHIP AND UNIVERSAL COMPLIANCE WITH THE NUCLEAR NONPROLIFERATION REGIME

A country interested in participating in the Global Nuclear Energy Partnership (GNEP) may not be fully aware of the resources and infrastructure required to maintain its safeguards obligations. When the GNEP program was launched by the U.S. Department of Energy early in 2006, its ultimate impact on the nuclear nonproliferation regime was not entirely predictable. The program has received much attention from many countries that wish to play a role—some that have nuclear programs in place and others that do not. Some countries have indicated to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) their desire to benefit from the program. However, requirements regarding regulations, security, and infrastructure associated with participation in GNEP need to be stressed and clearly identified to all members of the international community. For those countries with minimal or no current nuclear activity, guidance and assistance are needed in developing the required domestic infrastructure. This paper presents a roadmap for such countries to meet the requirements of the international community.