A fissile material cutoff treaty would ban the production of fissile material for nuclear weapons purposes. Fissile materials, principally highly enriched uranium (HEU) and plutonium, are the essential ingredients for building nuclear weapons. The effective control and elimination of fissile materials is an essential step toward effective non-proliferation and a precondition for nuclear disarmament. As […]
Fact Sheet: Project Sapphire
Project Sapphire was a successful covert operation that took place in 1994 and transferred highly enriched uranium (HEU) from Kazakhstan to the United States. At the time that Project Sapphire was undertaken, there was widespread concern that loose fissile material in the former Soviet states could spark a crisis. The project was a joint effort […]
Introducing: Export Control Fact Sheets
By Sophia Macartney Now more than ever, it is crucial that all foreign policy tools, including arms control and non-proliferation, be taken advantage of and utilized in the most effective way possible. In the wake of insecurity brought on by Russian nuclear threats and Iran’s heightened enrichment capabilities, it’s time for more consideration to be […]
Fact Sheet: Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG)
At a Glance The Nuclear Suppliers Group is a group of potential nuclear supplier countries that follow guidelines for nuclear-related exports in efforts to promote nuclear non-proliferation while complying with Article IV of the NPT requirements to foster cooperation in peaceful uses of nuclear energy. Since participation is voluntary, there are 48 “participating governments.” History […]
Fact Sheet: The Zangger Committee
At a Glance The Zangger Committee (also known as the NPT Exports Committee or ZAC) is tasked with maintaining a Trigger List of nuclear materials and equipment that are subject to safeguards in accordance with the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). Currently, there are 38 states party and the European Union is a permanent observer. History […]