The trafficking of nuclear and radioactive material remains limited, with only a handful of cases recorded in 2023. This data, released by the U.N. nuclear watchdog’s Incident and Trafficking Database (ITDB), indicates that the situation has remained consistent with recent years. The ITDB, which monitors illicit activities involving nuclear and radioactive materials, provides a crucial insight into global security concerns surrounding these materials.
Limited incidents of trafficking
In 2023, there were six incidents confirmed or likely connected to trafficking or malicious use, known as Group I incidents. This represents a slight increase from 2022 but is fewer than in 2021. According to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), “In 2023, 168 incidents were recorded by 31 states, in line with historical averages.” This consistency suggests a steady trend in the handling and regulation of nuclear and radioactive materials.
The ITDB, established to track the illicit trafficking of materials such as uranium, plutonium, and radioactive isotopes used in hospital equipment, now includes participation from 145 countries. This broad participation underscores the global importance of monitoring and preventing the misuse of these dangerous substances.
Classification of incidents
The ITDB categorises incidents into three groups based on their severity and potential connection to trafficking or malicious use:
Group I: Incidents confirmed or likely related to trafficking or malicious use.
Group II: Incidents where a connection to trafficking or malicious use is unclear.
Group III: Incidents where trafficking or malicious use is unlikely or can be ruled out.
In 2023, ten incidents fell into Group II, a significant decrease from 2022. Group III incidents, however, saw an increase of about 25%, rising to 152 cases. These typically involve unauthorised disposal, shipment, or the discovery of radioactive material.
Unauthorized disposal and contamination
A growing concern highlighted in the report is the unauthorised disposal of radioactive material, often detected during recycling processes. When such materials are melted down, they can contaminate other substances, posing serious health and environmental risks. There has also been an uptick in cases involving manufactured goods contaminated in this way.
Since its inception in 1993, fewer than 2% of Group I incidents have been classified as malicious use. Nearly 86% have been filed as trafficking, with the primary motive being profit. The remaining incidents were related to scams and frauds. The IAEA noted, “Most trafficking incidents could be characterized as ‘amateur’ or opportunistic in nature,” with better-organised cases involving experienced perpetrators being relatively rare and none occurring in almost a decade.
The importance of transport security
Theft, especially during transport, remains a common cause of these incidents. The IAEA stressed the importance of enhancing transport security measures to prevent such occurrences. “Figures from the ITDB highlight the ongoing importance of strengthening transport security measures,” the agency stated.
This year’s data reinforces the need for continued vigilance and robust security protocols to prevent the illicit use of nuclear and radioactive materials. While the number of incidents remains relatively low, the potential consequences of mishandling these substances necessitate ongoing international cooperation and stringent regulatory measures.
The steady number of nuclear and radioactive material trafficking incidents, as reported by the IAEA, indicates that while current security measures are somewhat effective, there is no room for complacency. The global community must continue to prioritise the secure handling, transport, and disposal of these materials to mitigate the risks associated with their misuse. Strengthening these measures will be essential in maintaining global safety and security in the years to come.