Safeguarding reprocessing facilities: the impact of multinationalization

Reprocessing facilities pose greater safeguards problems than other fuel cycle components. Reasons for the interest of many nations in developing a reprocessing capacity are explored. The present U.S. position on export of sensitive technologies is discussed. The problem of applying adequate safeguards at this point of the fuel cycle is next considered, including IAEA and bilateral arrangements. Arguments for and against multinational ownership or control of reprocessing facilities from the safeguards standpoint are discussed