Illicit trafficking and other unauthorized activities involving nuclear and other radioactive material are potentially indicative of weaknesses and vulnerabilities in measures to prevent illegal acquisition; of needs and priorities in detection and response measures; of the potential availability of material for malicious use; of the existence or perceived existence of illegal markets for nuclear and other radioactive material; and of the involvement of organized criminal and terrorist groups. Analysis and evaluation of data on illicit trafficking provide insights into these aspects and can, thereby, make a contribution to assessing risks and identifying potential threats, both in broad and specific terms. The paper draws upon information made available by States to the IAEA Illicit Trafficking Database; a system for collecting and collating, analysing and disseminating information on illicit trafficking and other unauthorized acts. Other inputs include indicators of the intentions and capabilities of potential perpetrators of malicious acts and an increasing understanding of the scope for malicious use of radioactive material and the potential consequences. Taken together, these insights provide a foundation for developing and prioritizing future measures to prevent, detect and respond to illicit trafficking, thereby enhancing nuclear security.
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