The sixth edition of the Nuclear Threat Initiative (NTI) Nuclear Security Index paints a sobering picture of global nuclear security, despite ongoing threats including geopolitical and economic instability, natural disasters, and cybersecurity risks. The report, developed in partnership with Economist Impact, examines the state of nuclear and radiological security in 175 countries and Taiwan. Its findings indicate the insufficient capacity of several countries to protect nuclear materials and facilities from theft and sabotage. The report is also critical of the international community for its waning commitment to reducing nuclear risks. The NTI Index outlines nine findings and offers recommendations to increase security efforts, establish and maintain best practices for protecting nuclear and radiological facilities, and step up leadership to protect the world from nuclear catastrophe.

“In this new era of instability, it is crucial that the global nuclear security architecture be fortified to prevent nuclear catastrophe. Leaders have an obligation to rise to this challenge. It is time for them to step up to the task.“

Ernest J. Moniz, Co-Chair and CEO of Nuclear Threat Initiative

The full report is available here: 2023 NTI Nuclear Security Index, Theft/Sabotage/Radiological: Falling Short in a Dangerous World.

Prior editions of the index are available in the HSDL series, NTI Nuclear Materials Security Index. For more information, check out the HSDL In Focus on Nuclear Weapons.