Best Practices in Collaborative Assistance to States in Deploying and Sustaining Radiation Detection Systems for Combating Criminal Use of Nuclear and Other Radioactive Material and Illicit Trafficking

Assistance from States and international organizations is a critical element for addressing the global threat of nuclear proliferation. Collaboration in State and international assistance greatly enhances its effectiveness and requires a shared understanding of the nuclear threats and a common commitment to a sustainable, comprehensive architecture for nuclear detection. The Border Monitoring Working Group is offered as a model of such collaboration. Working within the framework of coordinated international efforts to strengthen the global capacity to combat the illicit trafficking of nuclear and other radioactive materials, three key organizations have recognized the benefits gained through collaborative activities which augment the indigenous capabilities of partner countries and cultivate sustained relationships for common goals. The United States Department of Energy, National Nuclear Security Administration, Office of Second Line of Defense (SLD); the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA); and the European Commission's Joint Research Centre (JRC) have independently and collaboratively worked with partner countries to aid in the deployment of radiation detection systems. This assistance has taken various forms, most directly by installing radiation detection equipment, providing training and sustainability support, and facilitating joint exercises and regional workshops for partners worldwide. In addition, leveraging outreach and partnership opportunities offered through collaborative organizations such as the Border Monitoring Working Group (BMWG) and the Global Partnership broadens the availability of resources, and extends the impact of the global community to develop a multi-layered defensive network that strengthens the overall ability of countries to detect, deter, and interdict illicit movement of special nuclear and other radioactive materials. (author)