Theft of Secure Materials: Quantities and Sites

The NTI Nuclear Security Index assesses the theft risk of secure materials based on quantities and sites, highlighting how effectively countries manage their nuclear materials and facilities. This ranking reveals the leaders in secure management and areas where improvements are essential.

Top Countries Managing Quantities and Sites Securely

Australia and Switzerland lead the rankings, scoring 94, showcasing exceptional measures in managing nuclear material quantities and sites. These nations exhibit strong regulatory frameworks and effective controls to minimize theft risks:

- Australia: 94
- Switzerland: 94
- Norway: 89
- Canada, Germany: 76
- Belarus, South Africa: 75

Countries with Moderate Scores

Nations like Belgium, Kazakhstan, and Italy demonstrate solid efforts in managing nuclear materials but still have room to enhance security measures. These countries rank in the middle tier, reflecting a need for more stringent controls:

- Belgium, Kazakhstan: 72
- Italy, Netherlands: 70
- Iran: 52
- Japan: 42

Countries Facing Significant Challenges

At the lower end of the rankings, countries such as France, India, and the United Kingdom display vulnerabilities in managing nuclear material quantities and sites. These scores highlight the urgent need for improved infrastructure and oversight:

- China: 33
- Israel, North Korea: 28
- United States: 25
- Pakistan, Russia: 19
- France, India, United Kingdom: 14

Why Quantities and Sites Management Matters

Effective management of nuclear material quantities and sites is crucial for minimizing theft risks. Countries with strong controls and oversight reduce the likelihood of unauthorized access, ensuring global nuclear security.

Insights into Global Nuclear Material Management

This ranking provides valuable insights into how nations handle the security of nuclear materials based on site quantities. It underscores the importance of adopting robust measures, fostering international collaboration, and addressing weaknesses to mitigate risks effectively.