World nuclear energy: toward a bargain of confidence

A small group of experienced nuclear policymakers and independent observers formed the International Consultative Group on Nuclear Energy (ICGNE) to meet in a nongovernmental setting and address political issues. Two sets of previously published working papers, rearranged by theme, reveal divergencies in interpretation and opinion in the areas of confidence building, international safeguards, fuel cycle, and the viability of a civilian nuclear industry. They reflect, however, a consensus that an international approach should look beyond nonproliferation policy to how to develop nuclear power further. The ICGNE's final report specifically calls for an international collaboration to develop commercial fast breeder reactors. The final ICGNE report follows the eight papers. 74 references, 36 figures, 76 tables