How real is the threat of illicit trafficking and use of nuclear or other radioactive material? What are the roles and responsibilities, lines of authority and coordination requirements in radioactive material trafficking detection and response operations? How can the International Convention for the Suppression of Acts of Nuclear Terrorism (ICSANT) provide a legal foundation to conduct such operations?
These (and other) questions laid at the foundation of the table-top exercise (TTX) on ICSANT for selected States from South-East Asia that UNODC conducted in Bangkok, Thailand, on 27-28 February 2025.
A joint initiative of UNODC’s Terrorism Prevention Branch and Passenger and Cargo Control Programme, the event was co-hosted by Thailand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Office of Atoms for Peace and was organized in cooperation with INTERPOL’s Radiological and Nuclear Terrorism Prevention Unit.
The exercise aimed to build understanding amongst participants of the role of ICSANT and how they can apply existing laws and regulations, operational frameworks and technical capacities in support of nuclear security operations. Through a fictional yet realistic scenario, the exercise was designed to discuss the legal and regulatory aspects of detecting, seizing and handling nuclear or other radioactive material out of regulatory control at borders, and conducting related investigations, with a view to sensitizing participants to the importance of adhering to and effectively implementing the Convention.
The event gathered 25 participants from six South-East Asian countries (Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Philippines, Thailand, Viet Nam), representing a range of relevant national stakeholders, such as frontline customs officers and nuclear regulatory bodies.
Participants were divided into groups, based on country and expertise, to focus on various aspects of radioactive material trafficking prevention, detection and response. The facilitated exercise allowed participants to share good practices and lessons learned of specific national capabilities, legal frameworks and operational strategies. The TTX structure mirrored the multifaceted nature of addressing nuclear security incidents, which entail contributions from diverse agencies, e.g. law enforcement, intelligence, customs and border control, technical and scientific experts, as well as policy-makers.
Discussion revolved around four thematic sections: interception and interdiction of illicit cargo, investigation (including people and material involved, possible material origins and trafficking pathway), radioactive material disposition following seizure, and prosecution of relevant offences.
The event was conducted within the framework of a project funded by Canada on Strengthening the Global Fight Against CBRN Terrorism Through Raising Awareness and Promoting Adherence to and Implementation of International Legal Frameworks related to Nuclear Security.
