The International Convention for the Suppression of Acts of Nuclear Terrorism (ICSANT) plays a vital role in combating nuclear and radiological terrorism and enhancing global nuclear security. The Convention supports States parties by promoting international cooperation, including the sharing of information on investigations and prosecutions related to crimes involving nuclear or other radioactive material.
In light of the technical nature of the material falling within the scope of application of the Convention, related offences present certain particularities in relation to criminal proceedings, inter alia, with regard to investigations, evidence gathering, preservation and admissibility. The scientific discipline of nuclear forensics is an essential tool in effectively navigating these complexities.
To further explore this topic, the chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) Terrorism Prevention Programme of UNODC’s Terrorism Prevention Branch hosted a webinar on “Nuclear Forensics in Focus: A case study” on 8 November 2024. The webinar was the fifth in a series of events on key aspects of ICSANT carried out under the project funded by the European Union on “Support for the universalisation and effective implementation of the International Convention for the Suppression of Acts of Nuclear Terrorism.”
The event featured Mr. Gary Eppich, Nuclear Security Officer in the Division of Nuclear Security at the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). Mr. Eppich presented on the importance of nuclear forensics, available international assistance and a related case study. Some 90 participants attended the webinar.
Through his presentation, Mr. Eppich highlighted the role of nuclear forensics in relation to nuclear and other radioactive material that is out of regulatory control and outlined IAEA assistance on nuclear forensics, including publications and resources available. He then guided participants through a real case study involving radioactive material discovered during an investigation and discussed the role of nuclear forensics in analysing its makeup and attempting to determine its origin.
The webinar allowed for participants to view the case study through the lens of ICSANT, as the Convention could be applicable to it and other similar situations, provided that a transnational element is present, that the requisite criminal intent can be proven and that the material in question falls within the definition of radioactive material under ICSANT.
UNODC’s webinar series on ICSANT reflects its commitment to promoting the Convention’s universal adherence and effective implementation, as well as advancing nuclear security worldwide.
A recording of the session is available here.
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