Nuclear Security News and Member Updates Roundup, March 2022

Dear Friend,

The assaults on and occupation of Ukrainian nuclear facilities by the Russian military and the first Review Conference of the Parties to the Amendment to the Convention on the Physical Protection of Nuclear Material (A/CPPNM) will mark March 2022 as a fateful month in the history of nuclear security.  Although we may not recognize the full impact of these events for many years, the appalling Russian actions in Ukraine certainly raised the importance of nuclear security on the international political agenda. The slow loss of momentum on nuclear security issues with the end of the Nuclear Security Summits may come to an end or even be reversed in the months ahead. The Review Conference will offer us initial insights on the future of nuclear security in a deeply divided international community undergoing, concomitantly, a revolution in nuclear energy technologies and the promise of another nuclear renaissance. Civil society, including the membership of the International Nuclear Security Forum, can and should influence how that future takes shape.

Hope, Endurance, and Courage,

Rick

Join the conversation on Twitter: @INS_Forum

Updates

• The International Nuclear Security (INSF) was represented in-person by INSF Director Richard Cupitt at the official NGO session in the Review Conference of the Amended Convention on the Physical Protection of Nuclear Materials (A/CPPNM) on March 29, 2022 in Vienna, Austria.

• INSF hosted an event on the margins of the A/CPPNM review conference. The event, “Ways Non-Governmental Organizations and Civil Society Support Global and Regional Nuclear Security” was held on March 29, 2022 and reviewed the pilot edition of the Catalogue of Civil Society Activities Strengthening Nuclear Security to examine how non-governmental organizations and civil society have contributed to nuclear security through a diverse range of topics and programs. In reflecting on these contributions, INSF Director Richard Cupitt moderated a panel discussion with Matthew Bunn (Project on Managing the Atom) and Elena Sokova (Vienna Center for Disarmament and Non-Proliferation) to explore how civil society-stakeholder cooperation efforts could be further improved to create a stronger, more robust global nuclear security program.
• In partnership with the Center for Arms Control and Nonproliferation, the INSF hosted a virtual briefing on March 22, 2022, for Congressional staff that addressed the past, present, and future of U.S. nuclear security cooperation with adversaries and allies. The briefing featured presentations from INSF member and research professor at the Institute for International Science and Technology Policy, Elliott School of International Affairs, at the George Washington University, Sharon Squassoni, and Sam Nunn Professor and Chair of the Sam Nunn School of International Affairs at the Georgia Institute of Technology, Adam Stulberg.
• The INSF is excited to welcome two new member organizations to the group!
  • Nuclear Transport Solutions (NTS) is a part of the UK’s Nuclear Decommissioning Authority, they support the largest environmental restoration programme in Europe, and they use our specialist transport and logistics expertise to help partners around the world solve their own complex challenges, including in nuclear security. NTS has overseen more than 5 million miles of safe and secure transportation of sensitive nuclear materials, up to and including Category 1, by land and sea. NTS use their unique security capabilities to support a number of domestic and international threat reduction initiatives. This includes their work with King’s College London to deliver the UK government’s Nuclear Security Culture Programme, and their partnerships with the US National Nuclear Security Administration, IAEA, World Institute for Nuclear Security, the UK’s National Nuclear Laboratory, and many others. Learn more. 
  • Open Nuclear Network (ONN) is a Vienna, Austria-based independent non-advocacy NGO. ONN’s mission is to reduce the risk of the inadvertent use of nuclear weapons using innovation, inclusion and dialogue supported by open-source data, in response to human or technical error, uncertainty, or misdirection, particularly in the context of escalating conflict. Learn more.
• The window to submit topics for the International Nuclear Security Forum’s Nuclear Security Policy Menu project is still open. Topics can be submitted to Sneha Nair ([email protected]) until April 15, 2022. The February 2022 newsletter has more information on the project. View the newsletter.  

Nuclear Security News

International Architecture

• WINSI Join Forces with Universities in Promoting Gender Equality in Nuclear Security: “The IAEA’s Women in Nuclear Security Initiative (WINSI) is joining forces with universities in Egypt, Germany, India and the United States of America to empower and attract more young women to pursue studies and careers in nuclear security, and increase the representation of women in this field.”
• IAEA Establishes High-Level Kyiv-Moscow Dialogue on Nuclear Safety: “According to the agency, eight of Ukraine’s 15 reactors are still operating despite the ongoing hostilities and some of them are falling under control of Russian forces. Ukraine informed the IAEA on Wednesday that the defunct Chernobyl nuclear power plant had been disconnected from the electricity grid.”

Weapons, Materials, and Facilities

• Chernobyl Power Cut Sparks Fears of Potential Radiation Leaks: “Spent nuclear fuel from Chernobyl’s former reactors is stored in a large cooling pond that is constantly replenished with fresh, cold water to keep its temperature down. Without an electricity supply – which the Ukrainian government says the site now lacks – this cooling has stopped, which will allow the water temperature to rise and increase the rate of evaporation.”
• Fukushima Disaster Victim Outraged by Attack on Ukraine Nuclear Plant: “Fukushima Municipal Government officials have visited Ukraine to learn about radiation countermeasures. In a statement, Fukushima Mayor Hiroshi Kohata said, ‘A human-caused nuclear accident is absolutely intolerable. Our hearts are with Ukraine.’”
• Prominent Ukrainian Physics Institute Imperiled by Russian Attacks: “The National Science Center, Kharkiv Institute of Physics and Technology (KIPT), which was a hotbed of early nuclear research in the former Soviet Union and currently hosts a newly installed neutron source, has suffered significant damage from Russia’s relentless attack on Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second-largest city. The damaged facilities include the constructed but not fully operational Ukraine Neutron Source, according to the State Nuclear Regulatory Inspectorate of Ukraine.”
• Belgium Delays Nuclear Phaseout Amid War Worries: “The Belgian federal government postponed a planned phaseout of nuclear power Friday, citing a ‘chaotic geopolitical environment’ as the war in Ukraine disrupts energy markets across the European Union. Belgium also signaled ‘its interest’ in small modular reactors and said it will invest 25 million Euros a year in this field for the next four years.
• “‘Urgent’ Threat Seen From U.S. Nukes using Russia Uranium: “The Energy Department is considering options to expand U.S. uranium supplies to nuclear reactors that rely on Russian imports for current operation and next-generation research, the DOE’s top science official told senators Tuesday. In 2020, Congress authorized $75 million to establish a Strategic Uranium Reserve program, for which the energy department collected public comments last year.”

Security Culture

• Japan confronts nuclear plant security after Russia’s Ukraine assault, while debate on restarting reactors after Fukushima gains ground: “Japan is taking steps to better guard its 17 nuclear plants amid global alarm over Russia’s attacks on Ukraine’s nuclear facilities, with Prime Minister Fumio Kishida considering the formation of a new police protection unit.”
• CRP Success Story: Enhancing Computer Security Incident Analysis at Nuclear Facilities: “A Nuclear Power Plant (NPP) simulator, description and mock facilities – all named Asherah – have been developed as part of a recently completed IAEA Coordinated Research Project (CRP) to support research in strengthening cyber security.”

Threats

• Putin Declares a Nuclear Alert, and Biden Seeks De-escalation: “When Vladimir V. Putin declared Sunday that he was putting his nuclear forces into ‘special combat readiness’ – a heightened alert status reminiscent of some of the most dangerous moments of the Cold War – President Biden and his aides had a choice. For now, at least, Mr. Biden chose to de-escalate. The American ambassador to the United Nations reminded the Security Council on Sunday afternoon that Russia was ‘under no threat’ and chided Mr. Putin for ‘another escalatory and unnecessary step that threatens us all.’”

Material Minimization

• Iran Eliminates Some Weapons Potential in Uranium Stockpile: “International Atomic Energy Agency monitors verified that Iran began on March 11 irradiating part of its stockpile of uranium enriched to 60% to produce molybdenum targets, according to a two page restricted document circulated late Wednesday among diplomats in Vienna and seen by Bloomberg. the process renders the material useless for weapons.”

Member Organization Announcements and Updates

Centre for Energy Research and Training (CERT), Ahmadu Bello University

• CERT will be hosting a Professional Certificate Course in Nuclear Security Fundamentals from April 25 – May 6, 2022, to provide a foundation in the technical and policy aspects of international and domestic nuclear security through learning modules and practical exercises.

Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists

• The Bulletin of Atomic Scientists published an op-ed by INSF Member Nickolas Roth entitled, “The Ukraine Invasion Highlights Why Biden’s Nuclear Posture Review Should Endorse Bold New Vision for Nuclear Security.” Read the article.

Center for Science & Security Studies (CSSS), King’s College London

• CSSS also hosted a hybrid side event at the A/CPPNM on March 28, 2022, “Nuclear Security and Safeguards Considerations for Next Generation Reactors: International Approaches.” The event featured a panel of international experts explored the key safety and security considerations for small modular reactors and advanced modular reactors. Learn more.
• CSSS hosted a Nuclear Security Culture Programme webinar, “The A/CPPNM and the international nuclear security regime” on March 17, 2022. The webinar featured INSF member Trevor Findlay and discussed the evolution of the international nuclear security regime and the changing role of the IAEA since the end of the Nuclear Security Summit Process in 2016. Learn more.

Henry L. Stimson Center

• The Stimson Center hosted the webinar, “Maintaining the Nuclear Peace,” in partnership with the UN Office for Disarmament Affairs on March 22, 2022. The event examined a range of nuclear issues, including disarmament, non-proliferation, and security in the context of the current global affairs. Featured speakers included, Izumi Nakamitsu, Undersecretary General and UN High Representative for Disarmament Affairs; Michael Krepon, Co-founder of the Stimson Center; and Dilan Ezgi Koç, UN Youth Champion for Disarmament. Watch the webinar.
• Richard Cupitt and Sneha Nair attended the A/CPPNM Conference as NGO observers in Vienna Austria from March 28 – April 1, 2022.
• Richard Cupitt appeared on CNN’s Inside Politics with John King on March 4 to discuss nuclear security of Ukrainian nuclear facilities.

The International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS)

• Timothy Wright published an analysis on the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea’s nuclear and missile program in February 2022 entitled, “North Korea’s missile testing reaches monthly apogee.” Read the piece.

Lyndon B. Johnson School of Public Affairs, University of Texas at Austin

• Alan J. Kuperman gave an interview to ABC-TV on HEU-fueled Australian submarines on March 15, 2022. Watch the interview.
• On March 14, 2022, Alan J. Kuperman gave a lecture, “AUKUS and Proliferation.” At the Lowy Institute. Learn more.

NPSGlobal

• Irma Arguello and the NPSGlobal staff have been intensively participating in different media, TV, and radio interviews, in addition to written contributions, to provide insights about the war in Ukraine in general, the role of nuclear weapons, and the change of paradigm in the security of nuclear power plants – especially in the wake of the Zaporizhzhia attack.  These contributions included interviews for CNNE (in Spanish) that broadcast throughout Latin America and the US, NTN24, France24, Noticias Caracol, Infobae, TN of Argentina and La Nación Más.

Nuclear Threat Initiative (NTI)

• On March 30, 2022, the Nuclear Threat Initiative hosted a side event during the Conference of States Parties to the Amendment to the Convention on Physical Protection of Nuclear Material titled, “Next Steps For Ensuring A Strong And Sustainable Treaty Regime.” The event will take place in person in Vienna.
• NTI has created a page with resources on the war in Ukraine. Explore resources.
• In preparation for the upcoming A/CPPNM Review Conference, NTI has created a page with resources on the CPPNM and the 2022 Review Conference. View page.
• NTI has organized a series of bilateral meetings to help governments fulfill their obligations under Article 14 of the A/CPPNM.
• NTI is hosting a Policy Round Table on Exporting U.S. Advanced Reactors that will address issues related to fuel supply, export controls, security, and safeguards.

Nuclear Transport Solutions (NTS)

• Nuclear Transport Solutions (NTS) is delighted to join the International Nuclear Security Forum and contribute to this active community. They are keen to broaden their network, partnerships, and opportunities to help shape the global conversation on nuclear security. Please contact: [email protected].
• Convened by the World Nuclear Transport Institute (WNTI) and NTS, the side-event, “Global Nuclear Transport Security: The A/CPPNM, Implementation & Operational Perspectives,” brought together experts from government, NGOs, and industry to discuss the role and implementation of nuclear transport security under the Amended CPPNM. Secure international transport of nuclear and radiological materials is vital for the global civil nuclear industry. It is also a foundational issue within the Amended CPPNM, as the focus of the original Convention, and important for both nuclear and non-nuclear states. As technologies and threats change over time, the international community must ensure that the global transport security regime can meet current and future challenges. The event was held in-person on the margins of the A/CPPNM review conference on March 29, 2022.
• On March 30, 2022, NTS and the United Kingdom National Nuclear Laboratory hosted “Attracting and retaining the next generation of nuclear security professionals” on the margins of the A/CPPNM review conference. This in-person side event showcased some graduate and early career nuclear security professionals who will share their journey into the sector, experiences, and aspirations for the future. The nuclear security domain has typically been resourced by ex-police/ex-military personnel, or time-served individuals within the nuclear industry. As such, it has not typically been available for direct early-career entry. Emerging issues such as Artificial Intelligence, novel threats, and challenges and opportunities presented by advanced nuclear technology require the sector to attract newcomers from a diverse talent pool. The session will include a Q&A panel with the individuals and industry leaders.

Vienna Center for Disarmament and Non-Proliferation (VCDNP)

• The VCDNP hosted a hybrid event on the margins of the A/CPPNM review conference, “A/CPPNM and Nuclear Security: A Conversation with Ambassador Bonnie D. Jenkins” on March 29, 2022. Learn more.
• On 22 March 2022, the VCDNP held the virtual launch of a new report, Reflecting on the Annexes to the Model Additional Protocol in Support of Nuclear Governance, which is a product a project led by VCDNP Research Associate Noah Mayhew. The project comprised an impartial, technical analysis of technologies that are not covered by the Annexes of the Model Additional Protocol, but are significant in the planning, implementation and evaluation of IAEA safeguards and have implications for nuclear security regulation. Laura Rockwood and James Casterton joined the event as commentators. The report and a recording from the report launch are available on the VCDNP website. View the launch.  
• VCDNP hosted a virtual panel discussion on 15 March 2022, entitled “The Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons: From the Origins to the First Meeting of States Parties” featuring internationally recognized diplomats and non-governmental experts. Learn more.
• On 3 March 2022, the VCDNP hosted a virtual panel discussion entitled “Towards a Successful A/CPPNM Review Conference,” featuring high-level experts including the Co-Presidents Designate. Watch the virtual discussion.
• VCDNP Non-Resident Senior Fellow John Carlson has published a brief with the APLN that reflects on the 1996 ICJ opinion on whether the threat or use of nuclear weapons in any circumstances permitted under international law. Learn more.

World Institute for Nuclear Security (WINS)

• On March 31, 2022, WINS hosted “Strengthening the Role of Industry in Implementing the Obligations in the A/CPPNM” on the margins of the A/CPPNM review conference.
• Rhonda Evans delivered remarks at the G7 Global Partnership’s Nuclear and Radiological Sub-Working Group on the “Global Analysis of Human Resources Needs to Sustain National Infrastructure for Nuclear and other Radioactive Material out of Regulatory Control.”

Individual Member Updates

• Andy Semmel arranged a virtual briefing between IAEA Director General Raphael Grossi and the four Co-Chairs of the Nuclear Weapons Arms Control (NWAC) Working Group in the Congress. The four co-Chairs are: Senators Merkley (D-Oregon), Markey (D-Mass.), and Congressmen Beyer (D-Va.), and Garamendi (D-California).  All went well.  The Zoom briefing focused on the dangers to Ukraine’s nuclear power plants from the Russian invasion and what the IAEA is and can be doing to manage, monitor, and report on mollifying the dangers.  Several questions were asked about the current Iran nuclear negotiations as well. There was also an exchange on resources IAEA would need to do the necessary safety, security, and safeguards tasks in Ukraine under the current dire situation. Members of the NWAC Working Group said they were committed to helping provide some of those resources, if needed. The feedback, from both sides, tells me that it was a good and successful exchange on all sides.
• Ambassador Kenneth Brill authored an op-ed, “Stepped-up US diplomacy needed now to prevent nuclear terrorism,” for The Hill in anticipation of the 2022 A/CPPNM review conference. Read the op-ed.

Jobs

• Colleagues at the IAEA are in search of specialists in the field of Nuclear Safety and Security to fill the position Section Head (Nuclear Security of Materials outside of Regulatory Control) (P5). Potential applicants can direct queries related to the position at [email protected]. View the vacancy.
• NTI is hiring for a wide range of positions. View the vacancies.
• The Bulletin is hiring for a wide variety of positions for a range of experience levels. View the vacancies.